Cowboys' Pro Bowler is on the quietest contract year possible and his future is blurry

Lost in the Dallas Cowboys' offseason negotiating drama surrounding superstars Dak Prescott, Micah Parsons, and CeeDee Lamb is the contract status of an ever-underrated four-time Pro Bowler that never seems to get his proper credit:

DE DeMarcus Lawrence.

Lawrence is entering a contract year in 2024 and is set to hit free agency next year. However, this is a distant concern for Cowboys Nation as fans are mostly concerned about the future of the players laid out above.

That's led to an uncommon position for players of the caliber of Lawrence yet not for himself, who's used to being overlooked.

 Someone who has been an enormous part of the Cowboys' recent defensive success is barely talked about in what should be a critical offseason for his long-term future with the team. We're here to change that. 

How does it impact Cowboys' draft plans?

The Cowboys' need for depth at defensive end is largely underestimated due to the fact that Micah Parsons and Lawrence are such a strong starting duo. Behind them, however, the only proven edge rusher is Sam Williams. 

Pair that with the fact that Lawrence isn't under contract beyond 2024 and the need only intensifies. That's why although offensive line, linebacker, and running back seem to steal all of the attention when we discuss the upcoming draft, the Cowboys could legitimately consider taking an edge rusher in Day 1 or 2.

Missouri's DE Darius Robinson is a strong candidate for the 24th overall pick, and I'd consider him the likeliest target excluding offensive line.  

If the need goes unaccounted for through the Draft, expect a low cost addition in the later stages of free agency. 

Is this Lawrence's last year with the Cowboys?

Considering the Cowboys' future expenditures, I'd lean toward saying yes. Micah Parsons is going to break the bank when his time comes and the front office will already be dealing with Lamb and Prescott by then. 

Lawrence is likely not going to sign a cheap deal after consistently being one of the best run defenders in the game and a good pass rusher.

My best guess is that Lawrence goes elsewhere in 2025 on a short-term deal with high value.