The Cowboys will have plenty of money to spend when the free-agent market opens in March. They were able to re-sign tight end Jason Witten, safety Roy Williams and linebacker Bradie James.
The Cowboys are projected to be $24.5 million under the $109 million salary cap and could gain more space by restructuring contracts or releasing players.
But do the Cowboys want to spend the money?
On his weekly radio show, owner Jerry Jones said the team will re-evaluate its team's work in free agency after doling out large bonuses to players who did not make the team (Rocky Boiman, $1 million), did not contribute much (Jason Fabini, $1.8 million and Ryan Hannam, $1.1 million) or washed out (Mike Vanderjagt, $2.5 million).
Jones has not been afraid to spend the money, but he wants more on his investment.
TERMS TO KNOW
Unrestricted free agents: Players can negotiate with any other team without limitation.
Restricted free agents: Players can negotiate with another team. Their current team has seven days to match any offer. If the current team refuses to match an offer, draft picks will be given as compensation.
Exclusive rights: Players must accept what their current club offers or not play in the NFL at all.
DE Kenyon Coleman
Coming off best season but could get better deal elsewhere.
RT Marc Colombo
Started every game and solidified a spot that had been troubling.
K Martin Gramatica
Could be the bargain kicker Jerry Jones always seeks.
C Andre Gurode
Started every game, playing more consistently than he had in career.
C Al Johnson
Probably won't be back and could get starter's money elsewhere.
S Tony Parrish
Unlikely to return.
LB Al Singleton
2003 signing had a good run but days are numbered.
WR Patrick Crayton
A real threat as a No. 3 receiver with good hands.
LB Ryan Fowler
Excellent special teamer who can fill in at inside linebacker.
LB Junior Glymph
Pass rusher who could be back in training camp.
CB Nate Jones
Versatility at corner and safety makes him valuable.
P Mat McBriar
Coming off Pro Bowl year, Cowboys would like to lock him up.
TE Brett Pierce
Missed most of last two years with knee injury and probably won't return.
FB Lousaka Polite
On and off the roster all season, should get another shot.
CB Jacques Reeves
Solid special teamer and backup cornerback who has developed.
EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS FREE AGENTS
OG Joe Berger
Claimed off waivers from Miami, they like his upside.
DE Stephen Bowen
Had a sack in his only game of the season.
S Abram Elam
Surprise coming out of camp was one of better special teamers.
OL Cory Procter
Inactive all season but his potential has coaches excited.
NT Montavious Stanley
Sixth-round pick was cut and brought back but did not play.
E-mail tarcher@dallasnews.com
