Former UCLA Bruins star Eric Kendricks was released from the Los Angeles Chargers prior to NFL free agency.
Initially, reports surfaced of Kendricks going to join the San Francisco 49ers. However, Kendricks decided to change his mind and instead sign a deal with the Dallas Cowboys, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Kendricks had agreed to a deal with San Francisco, but getting to play for Mike Zimmer once again was a big reason why he headed to Dallas in the end.
Kendricks spent his entire career with the Minnesota Vikings before playing for the Chargers in 2023, and now he goes back to the NFC and should be a key piece of the defense featuring Micah Parsons.
Plot twist! Veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks is now expected to sign with the #Cowboys, per sources.
The #49ers made a strong offer. But Kendricks is opting to reunite with Mike Zimmer, who gets an experienced LB to help run his defense. pic.twitter.com/lNV3wxJ8pS
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 13, 2024
Kendricks had 79 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks in 15 games for the Chargers, and while staying in LA would’ve been nice for the UCLA alumni, he will see a lot of playing time with a familiar face in Zimmer.