Dallas Cowboys: The 5 Biggest Keys to Cowboys' 2012 NFL Free Agency Strategy

The Dallas Cowboys return from the NFL combine thinking about two things: The NFL draft and NFL free agency. Who should or who will the Cowboys draft, and which players should the Cowboys go after in free agency.

I believe I have an idea of where team owner Jerry Jones has his head. During the combine, Jones said that the team has a pass-rusher at the top of their list.

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“It probably would be a pretty clear choice if it’s that quality of a pass rusher, to me, over a lesser corner.” “In other words, for defense, I’m into the pressure for us right now above the corner even if we franchise Spencer,” said Jones.

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Jones, in a not so obvious manner, thinks that if the Giants can win a Super Bowl with a ferocious pass rush, then so can the Cowboys. But it starts with an edge rusher.

Before Dallas makes it to that point, the Cowboys have to develop and execute a strong free agency strategy. Here are five keys to Dallas having a successful 2012 free-agent period.

Clearing Cap Space

Dallas has yet to make a decision on linebacker Anthony Spencer or cornerback Terence Newman. Jones will allow Spencer to test free agency and the only way Newman returns is with a lesser contract. His money will count $6 million against the cap in 2012.

So, depending on when Dallas makes up their mind on Newman, the team could save anywhere between $4 to $6 million. If they decide to let him go, the team will have more room to go after a pass-rusher or a cornerback.

Being Careful with New Money

Once the Cowboys clear the cap space needed to sign whomever they covet, it will be important for them to be careful not to spend just to spend. 

I know that Jerry wants a Super Bowl and he, along with the fans, are hungry for one. But if there is cap space and no players are available that fit what Dallas needs, then sit on the money. I would rather Dallas take what they have or re-sign their own free agents than load up with players who will not make a difference. 

Avoiding Marginal Players

Last season, Dallas signed safety Abe Elam and cornerback Frank Walker in an effort to improve their secondary for the year. Elam had communications issues and Walker was, well, yeah. He was just there.

The Cowboys cannot afford to fill all of their gaps with marginal talent. I understand that Dallas cannot have a team filled with superstars, but no way can they win with less-than-average talent.

Dallas has to think smart about the players they attack and who will best fit into their offensive and defensive scheme. If not, expect another 2011 season in 2012.

Re-Signing Laurent Robinson, Maybe Anthony Spencer

Dallas has to make cap room for Laurent Robinson. He caught 11 touchdowns for them last season, and the chemistry he has with Tony Romo is irreplaceable.

If Miles Austin and Dez Bryant go down with injuries again, the Cowboys will have to depend on, possibly, Kevin Ogletree and maybe Dwayne Harris.

Spencer is a different story as Dallas will allow him to test free agency. If the team does draft a new defensive end or edge rusher, Spencer may come back. He will have more freedom to attack off the edge, but as of right now, he isn't a high priority.

Players Dallas Should Go After

Reports are that the Cowboys will go after Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Brandon Carr should he become available.

Carr is pretty good and has a nice frame. He’s 6' and is darn near a lockdown type of corner.

The next player Dallas should target is Brent Grimes from the Falcons. I doubt that Atlanta will let go of Grimes, but if they do, he should be tops on the Cowboys list.

Titans corner Cortland Finnegan is another player available Dallas should target. He’s tough, has an edge and he is a solid cornerback.