The Dallas Cowboys exhibited promise throughout the 2023 season, initially positioning themselves as strong contenders for the Super Bowl. They achieved an impressive 12-5 record in the regular season, securing the NFC East Division title and landing in the second spot in the entire conference.
However, their journey took an unexpected turn when the Cowboys suffered a dramatic collapse in the first game of the playoffs during the Wild Card round, considered one of their worst losses in franchise history.
America's Team were soundly defeated by the seventh-seeded Green Bay Packers, with the score of 48-32 at their home AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas last January 14. They trailed by as much as 48-16 during the fourth quarter despite boasting one of the league's top-ranked offenses and defenses.
It marked the first time a team failed to reach a Conference Championship Game despite winning at least 12 games in three consecutive seasons.
This defeat also made the Cowboys the first team to lose to a #7 seed since the playoff bracket expanded for the 2020-21 NFL playoffs.
Despite the loss, team owner Jerry Jones is committed to do anything possible to build a Super Bowl-winning team, and there are several moves in free agency that could make this dream happen.
Read more: Chiefs: 2 Moves Kansas City Must Make in Offseason to Win First-Ever Super Bowl 3-Peat
3 Players Dallas Cowboys Must Target in Free Agency To Improve for 2024
1. Derrick Henry
Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry could be a viable option for the Cowboys if they aim to enhance their running back position.
In the 2023 season, the 30-year-old Henry showcased his prowess with 280 carries, amassing 1,167 yards and scoring 12 touchdowns in 17 games, earning him a Pro Bowl selection.
Known for his effectiveness in goal-line situations and the capability to wear down defenses over the course of a game, Henry's skill set might align well with the Cowboys' need for greater consistency in their rushing game in the upcoming season.
2. Christian Wilkins
Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins presents another option for the Cowboys to bolster their defensive lineup. He has established himself as one of the league's premier run-stopping defensive linemen.
Additionally, the 28-year-old is coming off a career year as a pass-rusher, concluding the year with nine sacks, 65 tackles, and 10 tackles for loss. He also played a significant role in the Dolphins' sixth place ranking in yards per carry allowed.
The Cowboys are in dire need of strengthening their run defense, as they finished the previous season ranked a mediocre 15th in yards per carry allowed. Throughout the campaign, the Dallas defense struggled against the ground game in several losses.
3. Brian Burns
Carolina Panthers defensive end Brian Burns, one of the premier talents in the free agency market, would be a valuable acquisition for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys faced challenges with their undersized linebacking corps, particularly evident in their playoff matchup against the Packers.
Bringing in the 25-year-old, who possesses the versatility to play both as a defensive end and linebacker, could be precisely what the Cowboys need to add depth to their relatively thin linebacking corps.
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