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FRISCO: We reasoned that the Dallas Cowboys’ “big move” during the NFL’s free agency period may involve a “big guy.”
The Indianapolis Colts, however, had different plans.
The Cowboys need to get better on defense, especially at linebacker and along the defensive line. In 2023, stopping the run proved to be Dallas’ weakness and eventually proved to be the reason they were eliminated from the playoffs for a third consecutive season. Now, new coordinator Mike Zimmer has pledged to make his team “beefier,” according to personnel expert Will McClay.
Grover Stewart of Indianapolis had a career-high run-defense grade of 77.3 in 2023, according to PFF. He weighs 315 pounds and is 6-4. He’s been an APY man for $10 million, not a huge sum. Additionally, he is thirty, so the tires should still have some wear.
Johnathan Hankins, a free agent from Dallas who the Cowboys would like to sign back, would have lagged behind Stewart. And he may continue in that vein while the organization bides its time for 2023 first-round selection Mazi Smith to develop.
However, the Colts have a strong opinion of him as well. Grover is returning to Indianapolis on a three-year, $39 million contract.
Stewart’s greatest asset is maybe what Dallas most needs: his bulk allows him to block and flood running lanes, which may free up space for Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence to mop up. This is a brilliant concept that can now be applied to the next potential target.
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Naturally, Dallas still needs help at linebacker and on the offensive line. Some of issues can be addressed by the NFL Draft in April, but not all of them.
Generally speaking, flash is not the point here. It has to do with a large grinder. It has to do with Dallas’s requirements. Thus, the hunt is still on.