With George Pickens expected to receive a franchise tag, Dallas looks more likely to prioritize defensive reinforcements than chasing an expensive wide receiver. Betting angle: consider backing the Cowboys to sign a veteran linebacker and avoid heavy exposure to Tyreek Hill-to-Dallas market moves.
Cowboys poised to franchise-tag George Pickens
A top projection places George Pickens at the center of the Cowboys' offseason plans, with a franchise tag expected to be applied. That move would lock in Dallas' No. 1 receiving threat for at least one more season and limit the team's appetite for pursuing another blockbuster wideout in free agency.
Defense-focused free-agent strategy — linebackers in play
One widely circulated free-agent forecast has the Cowboys targeting veteran linebacker Devin Bush. Bush posted 125 tackles, three interceptions (two returned for touchdowns), two sacks and two forced fumbles last season, numbers that boosted his market stock. Pro Football Focus rated him among the top free agents and projected a potential market near $12 million per year.
What a linebacker signing would mean for bettors
If Dallas spends on linebacker help, that reduces the likelihood of high-priced offensive signings. Punters should monitor odds on the Cowboys signing a veteran LB and adjust exposure to prop bets that assume a major receiver addition.
Roster movement: veterans and pending departures
Early projections list several Cowboys pending free agents with varying outcomes: one veteran edge presence could re-sign, a starting cornerback is tipped to depart, and a recent running back signing could land elsewhere on a multi-year deal. Salary-cap pressure will influence whether Dallas retains depth pieces or opts for cheaper alternatives.
Coaching staff update: NFL opportunity for Demeitre Brim
The Cowboys are set to add Demeitre Brim as an assistant defensive line coach. Brim, a Central Florida product, spent last season coaching UCF’s defensive line and has previous stops at Nebraska and Lehigh. This hire marks his first NFL role and signals Dallas’ continued investment in developing defensive coaching depth.
NFL ripple effects: Dolphins release Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb
Cost-cutting moves are expected to make Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb available on the free-agent market. Hill, coming off a knee injury that could delay his start to the season, figures to be among the most coveted receivers behind Pickens. Early speculation links Hill back to Kansas City or to the Los Angeles Chargers. Chubb would address an edge need for many teams, with interest predicted from several contenders.
Betting angles from the Miami cuts
Hill and Chubb entering free agency will move several markets: destination odds for Hill (Chiefs, Chargers, others) will shift quickly, and lines on which team signs a top pass rusher may shorten as Chubb’s suitors emerge. Bettors should wait for official roster moves before staking large sums on landing spots.
Former Cowboys great granted pardon
Former Cowboys guard Nathaniel Newton received a presidential pardon for a decades-old conviction. Newton previously pled guilty to a federal drug-related charge in 2002 and served prison time. He expressed gratitude following the pardon and has discussed moving forward with his life and legacy.
What to watch next
Key items for bettors and fans: the official franchise tag decision on Pickens, any confirmed signing of a veteran linebacker, formal contract offers to Hill or Chubb, and the Cowboys’ cap moves that will dictate whether they add premium talent or prioritize internal solutions.
Cowboys Legend Michael Irvin Makes Career Announcement on Sunday
As the Dallas Cowboys position for free agency, one list has them pursing a Cleveland Browns linebacker.
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