It is that time of the offseason when we see many moving parts around the entire NFL from various teams.

The time of the year where team culture, identity and team-building strategies are developed.

The Dallas Cowboys currently have some big decisions to make when it comes to some pending free agents on the roster.

With the Amari Cooper and DeMarcus Lawrence contract shenanigans, the Cowboys have a former player they may look to bring back.

Here are a few reasons why Dallas should kick the tires on linebacker Anthony Hitchens.

Downside of his career

The Cowboys drafted Hitchens in the 4th round of the 2014 NFL Draft out of the University of Iowa.

Hitchens was a capable starter and played fairly well when he stepped on the field for Dallas from 2014-2017.

The issue now is he'll be 30-years-old when the season starts and he's lost a bit of a step. Even though he has never been a great athlete.

With Micah Parsons becoming the defensive captain, Hitchens would serve as a nice complement to the Defensive Rookie of the Year. But it's clear Hitchens is behind Parsons when it comes to youth and athleticism.

This scenario allows Dallas to stay young and fresh on defense. Plus, continuity within Dan Quinn's scheme.

Hitchens, due to his age, would be a stop-gap player and may get in the way of Cox's development.

His playoff experience could be beneficial, but his play style does not fit well with Quinn's scheme.

If you didn't want him then, do not start now

When Hitchens became a free agent back in 2018, the Cowboys liked him but not enough to give him a long-term contract.

He ended up signing a five-year, $45 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he became a Super Bowl Champion.

Now that he is past his prime and much older, why bring him back now?

How much does he have left in the tank? Is he still good enough to pair with Parsons?

These are all questions marks that could affect the defense if Dallas decides to pull the trigger on Anthony Hitchens

Sometimes it is best to leave the past behind to plan for a brighter future.

Cox and Parsons can be a dynamic duo for years to come but Hitchens could stop the development of both parties.

Featured Image by Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

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