Cowboys' Massive Defense Spending Spree

0:00On March 10th, the Dallas Cowboys just traded for edge-rusher Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers, giving up only a 2027. Fourth round pick. His deal adds over $40 million over the next two seasons to their payroll. This move pushes them to nine players averaging at least $20 million a year, topping the Philadelphia Eagles who have eight. Earlier this year, they locked in homegrown stars like defensive tackle, OSA OD Jizua, Gar Tyler Smith, and cornerback Darron Bland with big extensions. They've also brought in defensive linemen, Kenny Clark and Quinn and Williams through trades, and slapped a franchise tag on wide receiver George. Pickens, another trade acquisition. Fans are buzzing about this spending spree, especially since it tilts heavily toward defense, with more than half those high earners on that side of the ball. It shows owner Jerry Jones is serious about contending, even if it means jumping ahead of rivals in salary commitments. Gary's actual cost this year is about $19.5 million, rising to $20.5 million next season while the Packers absorb. Some dead money from the deal.

1:09The team also just signed safety, Jalen Thompson. Their priciest outside free agent in over a decade when adjusted for inflation. All this cash on the table positions the Cowboys for a strong run, balancing young talent with proven vets as they chased that Super Bowl shot.