For all of the excitement and jubilation the Dallas Cowboys 12-4 season generated, fan should not forget that this team still has a long way to go before they start raising Lombardi Trophies. Dallas' defense finished last season ranked 19th in yards allowed per game (355.1) and 15th in points (22). The Cowboys generated less sacks than all but four other teams. In other words, Dallas needs help on defense.
Defensive tackle Nick Fairley and linebacker Brian Orakpo are both scheduled to hit free agency next both. Both are talented players who have struggled with injuries recently. Will the Cowboys be interested in either of them?
"Fairley is not getting a one-year deal," Bob Sturm of the Dallas Morning News wrote. "I don't see that as even remotely possible. He will get a very large deal it will likely take 4-5 years to get him done.
"As for Orakpo, you might be on to something there, but his scheme fit is not ideal here. He also has a real difficult time staying healthy at a position where injury-prone players are under immense punishment levels. 1 year? Ok. Let's try it, but I can't do much more than Anthony Spencer's deal in 2014. 1 for $1.25m."
ESPN Cowboys reporter believes that of the two pending free agents, Orakpo is the more likely target in free agency.
"I think the Cowboys like to find buy-low free agents and see what they can do," Archer wrote. "Jerry Jones called it the incentive plan. Henry Melton was OK, but only OK. Anthony Spencer was solid. The trade for Rolando McClain worked beautifully with him on a one-year deal. To me, the current need is for a pass-rushing defensive end, so that would knock Nick Fairley from the discussion. He would play more of the nose tackle spot with the Cowboys, and I think he would require too much money while playing at a spot that doesn't see a lot of action. Brian Orakpo is intriguing. I know the Cowboys have a lot of respect for him and how hard he plays. They really think a lot of Ryan Kerrigan, too, speaking of Washington pass rushers. Orakpo has had three pectoral tears that have cost him games. That's a red flag for sure. But if the money is low, then I can see that happening, but if I had an either/or I'd vote for Spencer returning."
