Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made headlines earlier this year, claiming that the franchise had "tried to turn up the heat" during the off-season. Did the Cowboys truly make significant improvements or did they simply engage in reckless spending?
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made bold claims during the off-season, declaring that the team had "turned up the heat" in their pursuit of success. However, the results of the Cowboys' offseason moves remain a topic of debate, with some analysts applauding the organization's aggressiveness while others question the wisdom of certain decisions.
One of the most significant moves made by the Cowboys was the acquisition of wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Oakland Raiders. Cooper, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, brings a much-needed playmaker to a Cowboys offense that struggled to find consistency last season. However, the trade for Cooper came at a significant cost, as the Cowboys surrendered a first-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.
The Cowboys' Offseason: Turning Up the Heat or Playing with Fire?
Another notable addition to the Cowboys' roster is defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, a six-time Pro Bowl selection who was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier this off-season. McCoy is expected to provide a boost to a Cowboys defensive line that struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2018.
In addition to these high-profile acquisitions, the Cowboys also made a number of smaller moves to improve their depth and special teams units. These moves included signing free agents such as quarterback Cooper Rush, running back Darius Jackson, and defensive back C.J. Goodwin.
The Cowboys' Offseason: Turning Up the Heat or Playing with Fire?
While the Cowboys have undoubtedly improved their roster on paper, some analysts have questioned the team's overall strategy. The Cowboys have spent a significant amount of money on free agents, which could potentially limit their flexibility in the future. Additionally, the team's decision to trade away a first-round pick for Cooper has been criticized by some who believe that the Cowboys could have addressed their needs through the draft.
Ultimately, the success of the Cowboys' off-season moves will depend on the team's performance on the field in 2019. If the Cowboys can gel as a unit and stay relatively healthy, they have the potential to be a contender in the NFC. However, if the team struggles to live up to expectations, the Cowboys' off-season moves could be viewed as a gamble that backfired.
The Cowboys' Offseason: Turning Up the Heat or Playing with Fire?
Here is a summary of the Cowboys' key off-season moves:
* **Acquired** wide receiver Amari Cooper from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for a first-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.
* **Signed** defensive tackle Gerald McCoy, who was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
* **Signed** quarterback Cooper Rush, running back Darius Jackson, and defensive back C.J. Goodwin.
The Cowboys' 2019 season begins on September 8th when they host the New York Giants.
