The Dallas Cowboys are bracing for a pivotal offseason, and Week 18 could serve as a farewell for several high-profile players. With Jerry Jones and the front office eyeing salary cap relief, roster overhaul, and long-term strategy, at least seven Cowboys are likely playing their final game for the franchise.
This harsh reality underscores the brutal nature of the NFL: loyalty only goes so far when championships are the goal. Here’s a look at the players most likely on their way out—and why their days in Dallas are numbered.
1. Ezekiel Elliott – The $90 Million Dilemma
Once the face of the Cowboys’ offense, Ezekiel Elliott is no longer the dominant force he was during his rookie season. While he’s been a solid contributor, his $16.7 million cap hit for 2024 is a glaring problem. With Tony Pollard proving his worth as the primary back, Elliott’s declining production and bloated contract make him a prime candidate for a post-June 1 release or trade.
2. Tyron Smith – The Injury-Prone Legend
A stalwart on the offensive line for over a decade, Tyron Smith’s availability has become a major concern. Chronic injuries have kept him off the field for significant stretches, and his cap hit of over $17 million is hard to justify. While Smith’s legacy in Dallas is secure, the team may opt to move on and invest in younger, healthier talent.
3. Leighton Vander Esch – The Inconsistent Playmaker
After a promising rookie season, Leighton Vander Esch has struggled with injuries and inconsistency. While he’s had flashes of brilliance, the Cowboys may decide to part ways with the linebacker in favor of retooling their defense. His upcoming free-agent status only adds to the likelihood of a departure.
4. Michael Gallup – The Odd Man Out
Gallup’s return from injury this season has been underwhelming, and with CeeDee Lamb emerging as the team’s WR1 and Brandin Cooks in the mix, Gallup’s role has diminished. His $13 million cap hit makes him expendable, especially if the Cowboys want to explore cheaper options in the draft or free agency.
5. Jayron Kearse – The Defensive Spark Plug
Though Jayron Kearse has been a key player in Dan Quinn’s defense, his impending free agency could make him a cap casualty. With younger safeties like Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker under contract, the Cowboys might let Kearse walk to allocate resources elsewhere.
6. Dante Fowler Jr. – The Rotational Rusher
While Fowler has been a serviceable pass rusher, his role is easily replaceable. As a free agent, he’s unlikely to command a significant payday, but Dallas may prefer to invest in younger, higher-upside talent along the defensive line.
7. Dak Prescott? The Nuclear Option
Though it’s unlikely, whispers of a potential breakup between the Cowboys and Dak Prescott have grown louder in recent weeks. Prescott’s inconsistent performances in critical moments have fueled speculation about whether he’s the right quarterback to lead the team to a Super Bowl. With a massive $59.4 million cap hit in 2024, moving on from Prescott would be a seismic, controversial decision. Still, it’s not entirely off the table in a league that rewards bold moves.
A Franchise at a Crossroads
The Cowboys have underachieved in recent years despite boasting a star-studded roster. If they want to get over the playoff hump and contend for a championship, tough decisions are inevitable. Week 18 might not just be the end of the regular season—it could mark the end of an era for several familiar faces in Dallas.
As Jerry Jones weighs his options, one thing is certain: the Cowboys will look very different when they return for the 2024 season. Whether the changes will bring success or more heartbreak remains to be seen.
