Cowboys Projected to Re-sign Former No. 1 Overall Pick in NFL Free Agency

"Clowney, turning 33 next week, is a unicorn of a late-bloomer edge rusher, a former No. 1 overall pick who has played for seven teams in the last eight seasons and somehow has more sacks in his last five years (34.5) than he did in his first seven (32)," Auman wrote. "That includes 8.5 sacks this season for Dallas as an absolute bargain, costing them all of $3.45 million. He might cost a little more this time around, but it's still smart value for any team looking for reliable veteran depth and surprisingly good production."

Re-signing Clowney would be continuity for a defense in need of stability. While the Cowboys struggled across the board, Clowney emerged as one of the few dependable contributors. He provided consistent pressure off the edge, especially impressive given his midseason arrival and modest $3.45 million deal.

From a broader perspective, Clowney’s late-career resurgence underscores his value as a rotational veteran presence. The former No. 1 overall pick has quietly produced 34.5 sacks over the past five seasons, surpassing his total from his first seven years in the league. For a Dallas team attempting to rebuild its defensive identity under Schottenheimer, retaining proven production at a reasonable price would be a pragmatic step rather than gambling solely on youth.

The Cowboys’ offseason focus will likely center on repairing a unit that ranked near the bottom of the league in multiple categories. Bringing Clowney back would not solve every issue, but it would preserve a reliable pass-rushing option as the team integrates younger pieces and potential draft additions. If Dallas hopes to return to playoff contention in 2026, maintaining veteran depth along the defensive front could prove to be a foundational move.