What will the Dallas Cowboys prioritize in free agency this spring?
It's time to start asking such questions in Dallas, as the Cowboys were officially eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday. There's no shortage of holes to plug, and that's not even considering the potential vacancy at the head coaching spot.
Quarterback Dak Prescott is lost for the season with a hamstring injury, but when he comes back for the new season, it is imperative that the Cowboys can keep him upright. Prescott is football's highest-paid player, and now that he's over 30, he can't afford to be taking too many hits.
Rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton has had a tough debut season, and finding an upgrade over him might be a top priority for Dallas this spring. Fortunately, there should be options in free agency.
On Monday, Matt Holder of Bleacher Report predicted that the Cowboys would sign Cam Robinson, the Minnesota Vikings' current starting left tackle, to take over the role in Dallas on a short-term basis.
"Tyler Guyton struggled this season, especially in pass protection. While the rookie could turn it around in year two, Dallas should consider bringing in a veteran for some competition at left tackle," Holder said.
"Robinson has a long track record of being a good blindside protector in the NFL. Adding him in free agency on a short-term deal would give the offense another starting option and allow Guyton another year to develop."
Holder also ranked the offensive line as the second-biggest weakness on the Cowboys' roster at the moment, trailing only the defensive tackle position.
Robinson, 29, has started all 99 games he's played in the NFL after the Jacksonville Jaguars made him a second-round pick in 2017. He's finishing up a three-year, $54 million contract and could be in line for a steep salary even if he takes a one-year deal.
For the Cowboys, who have Guyton on a rookie contract, splurging on Robinson is worthwhile if they believe he can help improve Prescott's protection.
