The Dallas Cowboys begin their offseason with controversy. Their playoff chances were dashed after a controversial call on a potential touchdown catch ended Dallas' shot at beating the Green Bay Packers and heading into the NFC Championship game. Now, the team has a lot to think about in terms of free agency as two of their biggest stars plus their head coach are in need of new contracts.
No one was eager to discuss free agency after the loss to the Packers. The Cowboys were clearly upset over the ruling on the field that took away Dez Bryant's go-ahead touchdown catch and ended their postseason run. Now, Jerry Jones has to make some tough calls in terms of contracts as Bryant, DeMarco Murray, Rolando McClain and head coach Jason Garrett all need new deals. Some will stay, but no one is guaranteed a return thanks to salary cap constraints.
The Cowboys have clearly placed Bryant as their No. 1 priority this offseason. The wide receiver has completed his rookie contract and is looking for a nice pay raise that rivals some of the best deals in the league right now. The two sides attempted to negotiate a new deal last offseason, but failed to agree to terms. After switching agents, will the Cowboys and Bryant be able to find middle ground before it is too late?
"I just know what I'm going to accept and I know what I'm not going to accept," Bryant said, via the Dallas Morning News. "You know, it's not about the money. It's not about none of that. I just feel like a little respect should play a factor in that. I love it [here]. I really do. But every day you grow. Let's see what happens. It's all about respect. It's all about respect. I am a very loyal person, but just don't test my loyalty."
The wide receiver declined to comment on his pending free agency after the game, but is well aware that his future in Dallas could be coming to an end. Jones has stated that all options are on the table with Bryant, including the franchise tag which will not please the receiver. Jones has stated that they intend to give Bryant his money, but the contract must be fair.
Murray was also in no hurry to discuss his future. The running back is one of the biggest reasons the Cowboys got where they were this season and that could result in a pay increase. However, according to ProFootballTalk, the Cowboys and Murray have yet to have any significant contract discussions as rumors of a trade for Adrian Peterson loom. Murray is not old by any standards, but the running back market is weak and no matter what his stats were, the Cowboys will not pay money towards a big contract.
Garrett will also find out what his future holds. Jones has stated his intentions to keep the head coach on the team, something that will likely remain true after the success of the season. The future is also unknown for players like McClain who joined midseason, but made a big defensive impact.
