Key Dallas Cowboys free agent defensive star predicted to spurn team for rival

One of the Dallas Cowboys' key free agents is predicted to leave the team for a division rival during the NFL offseason.

Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence goes through a drill during practice at The Star Training Facility. / Chris Jones-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys have a big offseason ahead as the team attempts to bounce back from a disappointing 7-10 campaign during the 2024 NFL season.

Injuries plagued the team throughout the year and now they will have to bolster the roster depth at several positions.

With 25 players set to hit free agency, Dallas will have to reload and could potentially lose a number of key free agents, including veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who missed most of last season with a Lisfranc foot injury.

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Looking ahead to the offseason, YardBarker's Seth Trachtman predicted Lawrence could bolt Dallas to join a division rival, Dan Quinn and the Washington Commanders.

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell is hit by Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. / Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

"Lawrence made multiple Pro Bowls in Dallas when Quinn was defensive coordinator but played only four games in 2024," Trachtman wrote. "He could be a free agent bargain, and Quinn could utilize him in Washington."

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Lawrence brings familiarity to Dan Quinn's system and would add to the defensive line rotation with his 60.5 career sacks.

Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence rushes during training camp in Oxnard, California. / Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images

Last season, Lawrence played in just four games.

Beginning on Tuesday, February 18, teams can start designating with the franchise or transition tags. The deadline is set for Tuesday, March 4. The "legal tampering period" will begin on Monday, March 10, with free agency officially beginning on Wednesday, March 12 at 4:00 p.m. ET.

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