The Dallas Cowboys lost five starters and only signed one free agent this season, in stark contrast to the previous year when they spent the most of March strengthening their roster with trades for Stephon Gilmore and Brandin Cooks and the re-signing of important players.
Jerry Jones, so much for being “all-in” a year ago, has completely changed.
The NFL announced this week the dates of the Cowboys’ and other clubs’ offseason workouts, in anticipation of the upcoming draft. These are the dates for their required minicamp, OTAs, and the beginning of their offseason program.
I’m sure everyone is aware of these dates now that they have been formally released, but here is my sneak peek.
The First Day
For those who want an explanation of what the first day entails, this is as straightforward as it gets.
Teams like the Cowboys that have head coaches returning can start working out on April 15.
On April 10, teams with new head coaches can begin their offseason training.
The deadline to sign offer papers for restricted free agents is April 19.
The deadline for teams to use their right of refusal to reject restricted free agents who have accepted offers from other teams is April 24.
The Cowboys’ off-season OTAs (Organized Team Activities) are scheduled for May 21–23, May 29, May 30 & 31.
OTAs are
The Cowboys’ required minicamp, which takes place from June 4–6, is the last formal practice session before training camp opens in late July.
Most athletes are able to fully commit to their preparations for the forthcoming season because minicamp is mandatory.
Although athletes have occasionally skipped these sessions, coaches are still able to work with the players while they are on the field. I can’t think of any Cowboys players who would miss this, but they will be fined if their absence isn’t justified.
Unlike the OTA exercises, most teams—including the Cowboys—allow limited access to minicamp sessions for the media.
Minicamps are three-day training that are shorter. During the on-field sessions, there is no live contact in either minicamp or OTA.
The sole activities in Phase One are physical rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and meetings.
The last three weeks of the curriculum comprise Phase Two. Exercises performed on the field may involve group or individual teaching and exercises.
Phase three permits teams to practice as a cohesive unit for ten days without direct communication.
Difficult To Get Enthused
When the team acquired Cooks and Gilmore a year ago about this time, it was exciting and simple to get excited.
This season’s energy is gone. This squad has gotten worse, despite their claims that they are making every effort to prepare for the 2024 campaign, which is simply untrue.
This season, we’ll watch who this team selects in the first few rounds, but outside of