Cast your mind back to the 2016 NFL Draft where the Dallas Cowboys found themselves clutching the golden ticket of the fourth overall pick.
The team pounced on Ohio State’s Ezekiel Elliott who became a running nightmare for opposing defenses over his first four seasons.
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Just one pick before, Elliott’s national championship winning Buckeye teammate heard his name called in defensive end Joey Bosa to the Los Angeles Chargers who were still in San Diego at the time.
One will never know if the Cowboys would have drafted Bosa that night in Chicago had he been available at the fourth pick, but now, fast-forward nine years later, they have a chance to sign him as a free agent.
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On Wednesday night, the Chargers parted ways with the five-time Pro Bowl defender after nine seasons playing on the West Coast for financial reasons, as the team will save $25 million in cap space per Spotrac.
During his time in Los Angeles, Bosa played in 107 games, recording 343 tackles, 72 sacks, and 17 forced fumbles.
Despite his dominance, injuries over the past three seasons have likely also played a key role in his release. Between 2022 and 2024, the veteran end was limited to just 28 games, during which he recorded only 14 sacks.
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The Cowboys should consider the recent free agent, who can provide the defensive front with a proven disruptor and a strong presence opposite All-Pro Micah Parsons, creating a dynamic pass-rushing duo.
A signing as such would also greatly benefit Bosa, as Parsons’ ability to command double teams could create more one-on-one opportunities.
Furthermore, at 29, he represents a younger alternative to free agent DeMarcus Lawrence, who will be 33 at the start of next season should the Cowboys choose to retain him.
