DT Maliek Collins: Las Vegas Raiders
A 2016 third rounder, Collins was a steady presence along the interior of the Cowboys defense for the past four seasons. Last year, he started all 16 games, and recorded 20 total tackles (six for loss, four sacks) and 10 QB hits. Still just 25-years-old, Collins’ best football can still be ahead of him, as he continues to develop as a pro. Yet he signed just a one-year, $6M contract with the Raiders.
In his place, the Cowboys brought in established veterans Gerald McCoy and Dontari Poe, who represent more significant investments in the DT positions than Dallas has typically made in the past. The team also has Antwaun Woods, Trysten Hill and rookie Neville Gallimore to rotate in at DT as well.
DB Jeff Heath: Las Vegas Raiders
Heath had spent his entire career thus far with Dallas, but will play next season for the Raiders. He rose from reserve special teamer to starting safety, seemingly providing an equal share of memorable and frustrating plays over his seven years with the team.
The Cowboys brought in another player with ties to McCarthy to offset the loss, FS HaHa Clinton-Dix. A 2014 first-round pick of Green Bay, Clinton-Dix will hopefully generate a few turnovers for a defense that’s sorely needed them in recent seasons.
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