When offseason programming gets into full swing for the Dallas Cowboys, offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer will take on the challenge of reshaping this team's offense. For Dallas, this turnaround starts at the line.
A once dominant unit has faded in recent years and now mostly consists of younger talents developing into reliable starting pieces. That was evident in the 2024 season where the Cowboys had two rookies on their line in Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe.
The Cowboys started the season with veteran Zack Martin in the lineup, but injuries would end his season early. He has yet to decide on returning to the team, leaving in free agency or retiring from the league.
While Martin is not the same threat he was even just a few years ago, replacing him at the right guard spot will be a major task for the team. Given the youth and inexperience on the line, Dallas may not want to rely on filling that hole through the draft.
Adding a veteran through free agency may be the smart move here. Along with Schottenheimer, new offensive coordinator Klayton Adams has emphasized the team's need for toughness and violence in the trenches.
The Cowboys could find that in current Philadelphia Eagles right guard Mekhi Becton. Following a resurgent 2024 campaign, Becton has put himself in position to get rewarded for his play in free agency.
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox believes that this piece from Dallas' arch rival could help them execute that vision.
"Becton got a new opportunity in 2024 when the Philadelphia Eagles signed him and moved him to guard. With a new home and a new position, the 25-year-old (26 in April) thrived.
"The Cowboys should also consider Becton-if they can erase their projected $5.7 million cap deficit-as a potential replacement for Zack Martin."
We have no idea what B/R is talking about when it mentions a "cap deficit.'' ... or where they got that number.
The Cowboys are presently under the cap, will be carrying over more than $20 million from 2024, and can have $100 million in shopping room if they wish.
Even having said that, though, there is some risk in paying Becton his expected $10.2 average annual salary.
Whether its Becton or someone else, Dallas could find themselves in need of a right guard if Martin leaves the team.
Becton is still young and has shown the potential, so there is certainly a chance this deal pays off for Dallas. Assuming the younger guys come along in year two, this line with Becton and Tyler Smith at the guard spots immediately improves.
Any dreams of Becton or another offensive line upgrade requires the Cowboys to be active in free agency though and an overall aggressive approach to the offseason.
