The Dallas Cowboys have expanded their salary cap space significantly after restructuring the contracts of defensive tackle Kenny Clark, cornerback DaRon Bland, and tight end Jake Ferguson. This move has reportedly opened up around $19 million in additional cap space, bringing their total to approximately $34.8 million, according to ESPN's Todd Archer.
Before these restructures, the Cowboys had about $14.2 million in cap space, which was already considered substantial for the upcoming season. The NFLPA's figures indicated a slightly lower cap space of $15.8 million, but both sources confirm that the Cowboys now have ample funds to work with, far exceeding the typical range of $8 to $10 million that most teams aim for.
While the increase in cap space has led to speculation about potential trades, NFL Network's Jane Slater reported that the restructures were not necessarily aimed at facilitating an immediate trade. Instead, they appear to be a strategic move to prepare for possible trades later in the season.
Nick Harris from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the Cowboys may be positioning themselves for a significant trade closer to the deadline, rather than making a move right now.
Archer noted that this restructuring also allows the Cowboys to carry over any unused cap space into the 2027 season. Joseph Hoyt from The Dallas Morning News added that if a major trade is to occur, it is likely to happen mid-season, similar to last year's Quinnen Williams trade.
