The Dallas Cowboys showed interest in Cooper Kupp initially, but that changed when they learned his asking price. After being released by the Los Angeles Rams, Kupp became a sought-after free agent. As a former Super Bowl MVP and All-Pro, his value rose significantly, leading him to secure a three-year, $45 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks.
While the Cowboys considered adding Kupp to their roster as a top No. 2 option behind CeeDee Lamb, they were not willing to meet his asking price, according to Adam Schefter. On his podcast, Schefter mentioned that Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb had reached out to Kupp, discussing the possibility of him joining Dallas. However, once the Cowboys heard the financial terms, they realized it was out of their budget.
The Cowboys have faced ongoing criticism for not being willing to spend big in free agency, and missing out on Kupp only adds to that frustration. Fans in Dallas voiced their discontent, with some pointing to the reluctance to spend as a sign of a lack of commitment to winning. One fan expressed frustration, saying, “So Dak and Lamb are trying to make this team better while Jerry and Stephen continue to be cheapskates! You can tell who wants to win and who doesn’t.” Another fan added, “That’s why the Cowboys will be fighting for last place in their division.”
On the other hand, some fans supported the Cowboys’ decision, noting that $15 million per year was too much for Kupp, especially considering he’ll turn 32 in June. “That deal was way too rich for Kupp at this point in his career. Another smart move by the Cowboys’ FO!” one fan said.
The Cowboys did make some moves in free agency, signing wide receiver Parris Campbell to a one-year contract. Campbell has 123 career receptions for 1,117 yards and six touchdowns. Additionally, Dallas re-signed KaVontae Turpin, who has been a standout return man and added 420 yards receiving, on a three-year, $18 million contract.
Despite criticism, the Cowboys have maintained that they are being “selectively aggressive” in free agency. Stephen Jones, co-owner of the Cowboys, explained, “We’re going to look at everything we can, we’re going to be selectively aggressive. There’s things in this league, you have a certain amount of resources, and we’ll look at that, but we’re going to try to improve our football team, not try, we’re going to improve our football team, and we expect to have success next year.”
With some significant contracts already in place, including those of Prescott and Lamb, and Micah Parsons likely set for a big extension, the Cowboys are managing their salary cap carefully. They restructured the contracts of Prescott and Lamb this offseason, freeing up $56.6 million in cap space. The Cowboys also hold the No. 12 overall pick in the upcoming draft, which will take place April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
