Cowboys: Randy Gregory lands with 49ers days before Week 5 showdown
UPDATE: Two hours after the publishing of this article, David Lombardi reported Randy Gregory won't play on Sunday versus the Cowboys. Earlier this week, former Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Randy Gregory was reportedly set to be released by the Denver Broncos. On Friday, things took a turn that could put Gregory up against America's Team […]
UPDATE: Two hours after the publishing of this article, David Lombardi reported Randy Gregory won't play on Sunday versus the Cowboys.
Earlier this week, former Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Randy Gregory was reportedly set to be released by the Denver Broncos. On Friday, things took a turn that could put Gregory up against America's Team on Sunday.
The Broncos are trading him to the San Francisco 49ers just days before the much-anticipated Week 5 showdown between the NFC juggernauts. The news broke through NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
After the initial reports about an imminent release, I wondered if the Cowboys would consider adding him at a much lower price tag. It's worth remembering the Cowboys were close to signing Gregory to a five-year deal worth $70 million in 2022 before things went sideways due to a disagreement over contract language. Gregory ultimately signed with the Broncos. Now, he's a 49er.
The timing of the news couldn't be any more dramatic, by the way. If the NFL was indeed scripted, Gregory would absolutely play on Sunday night despite the short notice. But in reality, it remains unclear if he will. He's got to learn the defense first but that sounds doable for an edge rusher and he did pass his physical already. He's got a chance.
Even if Gregory doesn't play his former team on Sunday, the truth is the trade could end up being very beneficial for the 49ers. In this league, you can never have enough pass rushers. San Francisco got him at a discount, at least in terms of trade compensation, as they'll be swapping late-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. Specifically, they'll give up a 2024 6th-rounder and get back a 7th-rounder.
Gregory played a big part in the Cowboys' loss to the 49ers during the 2021-2022 playoffs when he was called for multiple penalties, including a defensive holding late in the fourth quarter. If he plays, Dallas would love to see him doing that instead of channeling in the highly successful pass rusher that he can be when at his best.
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