Cowboys Lock in Kicker, Eye Defensive Boost

0:00On March 8th, the Dallas Cowboys have placed a second-round tender on kicker brand in Aubrey, locking in $5.76 million for the upcoming season. This move gives them the right to match any offer sheet from another team, or pick up a second-round draft pick if they pass. It's a smart play to keep their reliable kicker, who's been perfect on field goals lately. Negotiations are ongoing, with the Cowboys offering less than $7 million a year, while Aubrey's agent pushes for close to $10 million. Experts expect the deal soon, that can make him the highest-paid kicker in the league, topping guys like Harrison Butker and Jay Gellion. This tender tilts everything in Dallas's favor, especially since they lack a second-round pick this year from a past trade. Fans see it as low-risk, with Aubrey likely staying put or netting valuable compensation amid the team's defensive rebuild. After missing out on edge-rusher, Max Crosby, who went to Baltimore, the Cowboys are eyeing free agents like Malcolm Coons, Bradley Chove, and Quitty.

1:00Pays have boosted their past rush. They're also considering veteran linebacker Tremaine Edmonds, with his 900-plus tackles and rare picks from the position. Free agency opens Monday at noon eastern, so Dallas must avoid overpaying for big-sec years that often regress. Smart moves here could fix last season's weak defense, and set up a strong 2026 run.