Former quarterback turned ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III emphasizes the significance of actions over words, particularly evident when assessing the Dallas Cowboys’ offseason moves.
Every year, numerous teams proclaim their commitment to go “all in” for a Super Bowl victory, but only a fraction of them back up their claims with substantive offseason maneuvers.
Griffin III points to the Houston Texans’ recent headline-making trade for Bills’ star wide receiver Stefon Diggs as evidence of their potential to vie for a Super Bowl title next season. Conversely, he critiques a certain team, the Cowboys, for failing to substantiate its championship aspirations with concrete actions.
“The Houston Texans are making the moves the Dallas Cowboys should have if they were really ALL IN.”
While Griffin III’s motivation for singling out the Cowboys following the Texans’ significant move remains undisclosed, his observations aren’t unfounded.
Dallas has endured what could arguably be termed as one of the most lackluster offseasons in the league, yet persists in harboring hopes of Super Bowl contention for the upcoming season. Notably, the team hasn’t graced a conference championship since the 1995 season.
Given this context, what substantiates their optimism, particularly after witnessing the departure of several key players over recent months?
Granted, the Cowboys have grappled with salary cap constraints throughout the offseason. However, other teams have demonstrated adeptness in maneuvering within cap limitations to bolster their roster.
Contrastingly, Dallas has seen significant departures in free agency, including notable figures like RB Tony Pollard (now with the Titans), LT Tyron Smith (now with the Jets), C Tyler Biadasz, and DE Dorance Armstrong (both with the Commanders), with only LB Eric Kendricks added to the roster, alongside re-signings of RB Rico Dowdle and CB Jourdan Lewis. Furthermore, notable free agents like wide receiver Michael Gallup, released by the Cowboys last month, and cornerback Stephon Gilmore, remain unsigned.
While the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft offers opportunities for teams with limited financial flexibility to fortify their rosters, the Dallas Cowboys are slated to make its first selection not until pick No. 24.
While it’s acknowledged that Super Bowls are not won in the offseason, the groundwork for championship contention is undoubtedly laid during this period. Griffin III’s sentiments underscore a perception that the Cowboys are lagging behind, particularly evident in light of the Texans’ recent bold move.
More must-reads: