3 veteran FAs the Cowboys should sign ahead of training camp

The Dallas Cowboys could add some much-needed depth ahead of training camp by signing these three veterans.

Randy Gurzi | Jun 28, 2024

David Bakhtiari / Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

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The Dallas Cowboys have put together one of the least impressive offseasons in recent memory.

Even their solid work in the 2024 NFL Draft won't be enough to compensate for all the losses they suffered, as they allowed most of their free agents to hit the open market and went bargain-shopping to replace them.

With less than a month to go before training camp begins, the Cowboys still have time to bring in some outside help—other than UFL players, that is.

To build the best 53-man roster possible, the Cowboys should reach out to these three veterans who would help in positions of need.

Dalvin Cook, RB

Dalvin Cook / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The Cowboys arguably have the worst running back corps in the NFL right now. They re-signed Ezekiel Elliott after skipping every option in the draft. He joins Rico Dowdle, Royce Freeman, and Deuce Vaughn.

The coaching staff believes this committee approach could keep the chains moving, but they shouldn't be afraid to add more competition.

One name to consider is Dalvin Cook, who was once a perennial 1,000-yard rusher.

MORE: Could Cowboys sign veteran RB before training camp?

In four of his six seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Cook had more than 1,000 yards on the ground and was just as dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield. He was released ahead of 2023 and spent time with the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens but had just 67 rushing attempts and 15 receptions.

Dallas was linked to Cook when he was available before the playoffs, but he signed with the Ravens. Again, the dots have also been connected between the two this year, although nothing has come to fruition. He says he's fresh after hardly getting the ball last year, and while he might not be the explosive player he once was, he could be better than anyone the Cowboys have.

David Bakhtiari, OT

David Bakhtiari / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Needing a new starter at left tackle and center, the Cowboys were able to find both thanks to their savvy move during the NFL Draft. Dallas sent the No. 24 overall selection to the Detroit Lions for pick No. 29 and 73, which were used to land Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe.

Guyton is penciled in as the starting left tackle, but he's still rather raw. He could prove to be a great selection, but the Cowboys have seen how quickly things can fall apart when the blindside protector is an issue—look at you, Chaz Green and Byron Bell.

MORE: Could Dallas Cowboys turn to former All-Pro for OL depth?

That's why they should kick the tires on former Green Bay Packers starter David Bakhtiari.

There are reasons for hesitation since Bakhtiari has dealt with severe knee issues but believes he has a couple more years left in the tank. Even if he were to give the Cowboys roughly 10 games this year, it would be a win. He's still one of the top pass blockers in the NFL when he's on the field, and his experience and approach would only help Guyton develop as a pro.

Michael Thomas, WR

Michael Thomas / Matthew Hinton-USA TODAY Sports

Another player in need of a "prove-it" deal is Michael Thomas.

Thomas was once considered among the top five wideouts in the league. He led the NFL in receptions in 2018 and 2019 and in receiving yards in 2019.

MORE: Dallas Cowboys named 'best fit' for top free agent wide receiver

Toe injuries have limited him in recent years. as he played in just 10 games from 2020 through 2022. He did return for 10 games in 2023 for the New Orleans Saints and was effective overall.

While not his former self, Thomas hauled in 39 passes for 448 yards with a touchdown.

In Dallas, he could fill in as the third wide receiver while offering them more experience should the holdout with CeeDee Lamb continue to linger.

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