Cowboys Expected to Sign $12M Free-Agent LB and First-Round Pick
The Dallas Cowboys are once again at a crossroads as they approach the 2026 NFL season. With ongoing challenges in solidifying their linebacker position, the franchise faces a crucial decision: should they commit financially to a free agent like Devin Bush, or rely on their prevailing draft strategy with two first-round picks? The stakes are high, as every move could have significant ramifications for the team’s depth chart, cap space, and overall success.
Cowboys’ Linebacker Dilemma: A Critical Analysis
For several seasons, the Cowboys have struggled to find stability at linebacker despite investing significant resources, including top-100 draft picks and trades for former first-round selections. This persistent failure emphasizes a larger strategic puzzle: how to effectively leverage available resources in free agency versus the draft. With the scouting combine imminent, the question becomes even more urgent: will the Cowboys secure Bush’s talents for an estimated $12 million annually, or opt for a different strategic path?
Devin Bush: The Potential Game-Changer
Last season, Devin Bush demonstrated impressive capabilities, racking up 125 tackles, three interceptions (two returned for touchdowns), and two sacks in Cleveland. This marked a resurgence for the linebacker, who previously struggled after being the 10th overall pick by the Steelers. Pro Football Focus has graded him as one of the top free agents available, underscoring the competitive interest he will command in the market.
While PFF predicts a valuation of $12 million annually, Spotrac offers a more conservative estimate of $9 million per year for a total of three years and $27 million. This discrepancy highlights the variability in market demand and could influence the Cowboys’ decision.
| Stakeholder | Before Signing Bush | After Signing Bush |
|---|---|---|
| Cowboys Front Office | Two high draft picks, need to rebuild | Strengthened linebacker core, less draft pressure |
| Linebacker Corps | Young, inexperienced group | Experienced leadership with Bush joining |
| Opponent Teams | Potential for exploitation in coverage | Increased challenge with Bush’s superior coverage |
The potential addition of Bush not only brings athleticism but is also a tactical hedge against the uncertainty surrounding current linebackers like DeMarvion Overshown, who is still recovering from multiple injuries. The Cowboys’ current roster also features promising but unproven players like Marist Liafau and Shemar James, making Bush’s experience critical for immediate impact and mentorship.
Market Dynamics: Broader Implications
The Cowboys’ strategy will resonate beyond their own roster. The decisions made regarding linebacker investments will reflect larger trends in the NFL where positional value, especially after a salary cap increase, will shape team strategies across the league. Teams may wish to funnel resources into foundational positions, leading to a ripple effect on free-agent markets, particularly impacting the linebacker category.
Projected Outcomes: What to Watch For
- Potential Signing of Devin Bush: If the Cowboys sign Bush, expect a shift in how they utilize their first-round picks, perhaps focusing on premium positions like edge rusher or receiver.
- Adjustment of Team Strategy: A commitment to free agency in less prestigious positions like linebacker indicates a broader strategy to fortify weaknesses quickly, catering to an all-in approach for the 2026 season.
- Impact on Free-Agent Market: Bush’s signing could spark a domino effect, with other linebackers similarly elevated in value, reshaping the economic landscape of the class.
In conclusion, the Cowboys stand at a pivotal moment that will not only affect their 2026 campaign but could also redefine their approach to roster-building in the coming years. The decision to invest in a proven linebacker like Devin Bush carries weight, potentially marking a significant turning point for a franchise long searching for stability on defense.
