The Cowboys' free agency signings have sparked debate, but when assessing the roster after the first wave, how does Brian Schottenheimer's team stack up?
The Dallas Cowboys have approached free agency differently than in previous years.
And yes, I hear you saying the franchise has gone back on Jerry Jones' "bust the budget" comment, and there was a reason I, like many others, was skeptical of it.
But still, Dallas deserves some credit, right?
Jalen Thompson, Rashan Gary, PJ Locke, Cobie Durant, Sam Howell, Matt Hennessy, and Derion Kendrick have come through the doors of The Star.
That's something, right?
And you could make the case that each defensive signing was made with a clear intent to give new coordinator Christian Parker the exact sort of player he wants.
So while many are frustrated at Dallas' lack of spending, particularly due to Jerry's comment, the franchise has still been far more active than it usually is.
But when assessing the roster and comparing it to other teams after the first wave of free agency, how does Dallas stack up?
Sports Illustrated's Conor Orr, in his latest power rankings, has the Cowboys smack bang in the middle at No. 16.
"It’s frustrating to see Jerry Jones bemoan the lack of defense from 2025, only to utilize free agency to admit that he was the problem," Orr wrote. "The Cowboys layered their defense with critical role players as they try to set the table for a Vic Fangio–lite scheme under the famed coordinator’s longtime understudy, Christian Parker. I imagine Dallas will continue to bolster its defense in the draft."
For most, middle of the pack feels right. ... and at the same time, it feels surprisingly promising.
It is worth noting that the Cowboys are above the Green Bay Packers (17), the Detroit Lions (18), and the Pittsburgh Steelers (20).
Looking at it from a wider lens, the Cowboys' defense has gotten better, right?
Even if it is by a small margin.
The additions of Thompson, Gary, and Durant look to be solid acquisitions, and with the potential to add a veteran linebacker to pair with DeMarvion Overshown, the Cowboys' free agency haul could get better.
With the draft coming into view, the Cowboys have the chance to further improve the roster, making their two first-round selections the cherry on top of a good start to the offseason.
But No. 16? After a handful of free-agent signings?
Cowboys Nation will take that.