Will the Dallas Cowboys bring back DT Gerald McCoy?
After everything the Dallas Cowboys went through in 2020, it's easy to forget what happened to Gerald McCoy. The former first-round pick was supposed to be one piece of the puzzle for an upgraded defensive line. However, McCoy's three-year contract with the Cowboys didn't last for long. After he suffered an unfortunate right quad tendon […]
After everything the Dallas Cowboys went through in 2020, it's easy to forget what happened to Gerald McCoy. The former first-round pick was supposed to be one piece of the puzzle for an upgraded defensive line. However, McCoy's three-year contract with the Cowboys didn't last for long. After he suffered an unfortunate right quad tendon injury in practice, the Cowboys released him through a surprisingly specific injury waiver clause in his contract.
Although Trysten Hill and Neville Gallimore showed promise throughout the season, fans were left wondering what could've been. As we approach free agency, that won't change. As a matter of fact, McCoy himself might be wondering the exact same thing. According to NFL Network's Jane Slater, he's still in the area and working hard to return.
But as much as we love a good comeback story, is a reunion with the Cowboys likely? Many would say so, considering what has been said from both sides. McCoy actually talked about being there for the Cowboys if they needed him, and he even FaceTimed Neville Gallimore to help him out.
Toward the end of the season, Stephen Jones even referred to McCoy as a member of the team on 105.3 The Fan.
In spite of how McCoy and the Cowboys feel though, there are some concerns that stand out. First of all, his health. The team was aware of the potential liability judging by the fact that his contract had a specific clause that pointed out the "Player's Right Quad Tendon." Now granted, now that he got the injury "out of the way" it might be less of a concern for McCoy than it was a year ago.
If the Dallas Cowboys do decide to bring the veteran defensive tackle back, he'll be competing with Hill and Gallimore. It's easy to favor Gerald McCoy, who's a three-time first-team All-Pro but what version of himself shows up remains uncertain.
It's also fair to point out that this is now Dan Quinn's defense and not Mike Nolan's. Not that McCoy doesn't fit on his scheme, but he's still not the guy who brought him in. Then again, he'd fit right in Quinn's four-man front.
Clearly, the Dallas Cowboys need talent on defense. While they already have a couple of promising players, it can never hurt having someone as experienced who can still play at a high level like McCoy.
Bringing him in for another shot in 2021 makes sense for both sides. But it certainly isn't a done deal as many would assume. After being pushed around on defense for most of 2020 though, Cowboys' fans will be expecting reinforcements. Even at defensive tackle.
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