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The Free Agent Break Down 2004

We'll be taking a look at some possible free agents of interest that may help add depth to the Dallas Cowboys. Obviously, this is not Fantasy Football and the Cowboys aren't going to be throwing out tons of cash, but look at the Cowboys to talk and possibly sign a few of these players. We'll list some key Unrestricted Free Agents and a few Restricted Free Agents.

The Cowboys are in need of a quality RB, and free agency 2004 has a few names out there that the Cowboys may want to look into-

Running Backs:
1. Duce Staley - Eagles
2. Rudi Johnson - Bengals (Restricted FA)
3. Kevan Barlow - 49ers (Restricted FA)

Another position the Cowboys could add some depth is at Defensive End-

Defensive Ends:
1. Grant Wistrom - Rams
2. Lamar King - Seahawks
3. Jevon Kearse - Titans
4. Rob Burnett - Miami

Next, we have to look into signing a CB. Like Parcells said, "You can never have enough DB's" Here are a few names out there-

Cornerbacks:
1. Chris McAlister - Ravens
2. Fernando Bryant - Jaguars
3. Bobby Taylor - Eagles
4. Shawn Springs - Seahawks
5. Charles Woodson - Raiders
6. Champ Bailey - Redskins

Depending on what the Cowboys do about Joey Galloway in the offseason, the Cowboys may want to add a Wide Receiver as well-

Wide Receivers:
1. Dennis Northcutt - Browns
2. Darrell Jackson - Seahawks
3. Terrell Owens - 49ers
4. Steve Smith - Panthers (Restricted FA)
5. Marcus Robinson - Ravens

Defensive Tackle is another area where depth could be added-

Defensive Tackles:
1. Ted Washington - Patriots
2. Paul Grasmanis - Eagles
3. Keith Traylor - Bears
4. Warren Sapp - Bucs

Free Agency Begins Feb. 29th. Look for the Cowboys to be very active in Free Agency. The Cowboys will have around $8 million to play with.

Key Dates To Remember-
Collegiate Players must declare eligible for Draft Jan. 15, 2004

Franchise Tagging Begins Feb. 6 - Feb. 20, 2004

Free Agency Officially Begins Feb. 29 - July 15, 2004 (day before training camps begin)

Restricted Free Agency Begins Feb. 29 - Ends April 18, 2004

NFL ROOKIE DRAFT Begins April 24 - April 25, 2004 in New York

What if a team signs a Free Agent designated with the "Franchise Tag"?
A: The Franchise Tag is a tool that NFL teams can use for 1 player per team. This means the previous team has exclusive rights to negotiate a contract. Now, if a team were agressive enough and were to sign a "tagged" player anyway, then the acquiring team would need to compensate (2) First Round Draft Picks.

What if a team signs a Restricted Free Agent?
A: In Brief, this is similar to the above. Basically, if another team were to successfully sign a RFA, then compensation would have to be given up, usually draft picks - anywhere upto a 7th rounder

Next: Possible Draft Picks