Cowboys’ roster woes and the fallout from Schottenheimer‘s arrival. Like it or not, the Cowboys entered the 2024 season with expectations, yet they couldn’t keep up with their roster deficiencies. No doubt they did finish with a decent regular season record but there was a lack of depth compared to teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs, who managed to fill their roster gaps to be at their full potential. While other playoff contenders made impactful free-agent moves, the Cowboys were hesitant in the market, failing to secure reinforcements. The o-line dealt with injuries and inconsistency, the defense faltered in big moments, and the backup quarterback situation was unreliable. Now, as the 2025 offseason begins, Jerry Jones and his front office claim they will be “selectively aggressive” in free agency, but skepticism remains.Ex-Cowboys defensive lineman Chris Canty has publicly called out Jerry Jones for his inconsistent approach to free agency during his appearance on the UNSPORTSMANLIKE Radio. “It sounds like it gonna be more of the same for the agency, for the Dallas Cowboys.” Canty as an analyst, pointed out that while the Cowboys talk about being strategic, they have a history of being reluctant to spend big on key positions.“That’s not a good thing, considering all the holes they are gonna have to fill.” Chris knows Jones with his calculation, took risks, but his tendency to overlook vital needs, such as the offensive line and secondary, has cost the team in critical moments. The Cowboys’ free-agent moves in recent years have been splashy but questionable signings and a lack of urgency in shoring up weaknesses.Cowboys to be “selectively aggressive” in free agency… pic.twitter.com/275X3OyC7a— UNSPORTSMANLIKE Radio (@UnSportsESPN) February 25, 2025Canty’s criticism tells us the frustration of fans who have watched the Cowboys repeatedly fail Super Bowl contention. “The roster they had last year was nowhere close to be good enough to compete.” It’s more annoying because they had talent at the main position but no decisive free-agent moves have kept them from taking the next step. We all question if Jerry Jones setting up Schottenheimer would fail or not. Schottenheimer trades a bold and risky bet, hoping to bring stability. Well, if Schottenheimer’s first major move as HC is to draft a QB, it may not sit right with Prescott. He has led the team to three straight 12-win seasons and now finds himself at a crossroads.If the Cowboys fail to land impact players in free agency and continue to cover their bets on uncertain QBs, Schottenheimer might feel pressure before his tenure even gains traction. There are several free agents they might consider. On the O-line, Trey Smith from the Chiefs stands out as a top guard for his durability. Next, we have Alaric Jackson, a left tackle from the Rams, with a strong 2024 season performance. At wide receiver, Tee Higgins of the Bengals is quite some talent, though he might come with a hefty price tag. To get someone more seasoned, Amari Cooper, from the Bills is a good choice. The question of the hour is, would the Cowboys and precisely Jerry Jones take that bet?Jerry Jones’ Quarterback gamble. Is Dallas preparing for life after Prescott?Schottenheimer’s promotion to HC was done for his offensive style and continuity. And now, it looks like Prescott’s expectations might have turned sour as the HC plans to improve his performance and status as the franchise QB. Dak Prescott has been the face of the franchise, but his injury history and postseason struggles have led the front office to explore future options. Remember his devastating injuries from 2020 and 2022, which left the team in disarray during those seasons?However, shortly after Schottenheimer took over, the Cowboys made it clear. As their Executive Vice President Stephen Jones openly discussed the desire to have a young QB, despite already investing a fourth-round pick in Trey Lance and retaining veteran backup like Cooper Rush. This sudden shift raises questions about the Cowboys’ commitment to Prescott. While he has been the team’s leader for years, the front office’s actions suggest they are preparing for a future without him. The excitement surrounding Schottenheimer’s arrival now seems overshadowed by uncertainty over Prescott’s long-term status.ARLINGTON, TX – NOVEMBER 10: Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott 4 looks for other players after the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles on November 10, 2024 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA NOV 10 Eagles at Cowboys EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon16924111012845Wasn’t it just yesterday we heard Prescott going all “yes Sir” while Schottenheimer was heard quoting “I’m good with X’s and O’s, but I’m great with people.” And now, a day later we hear rumors of the HC planning to bring in a new QB. Of course, the decision wasn’t meant to sit well with Prescott who has been the team’s key player for longer than anyone can remember. Under the new HC’s mentorship as an OC, Dak Prescott hit a career-high 69.5% completion rate, throwing for 4,516 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just nine interceptions. And this is the very same QB who led his team to an NFC East title. But now if the front office isn’t fully committed to him, we could eventually see the QB explore other options in free agency.After all this, will Jerry Jones be able to play the long game? Jones’ statement about being “selectively aggressive” in free agency raises skepticism. Will the Cowboys actually sign impact players, or will they continue to fill roster gaps on the cheap? If the Cowboys fail to make strong free-agent moves and instead prioritize a young quarterback, their championship window could close sooner than expected.The post Ex-Cowboys Star Calls Jerry Jones’ Bluff on Free Agency As Dak Prescott’s New Coaching Excitement Backfires appeared first on EssentiallySports.