Key Takeaways:
– Chauncey Golston, a vital backup defensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys, might be cut before the 2024 season.
– Despite a consistent performance, Golston’s position is under threat with rookies Justin Rogers and Denzel Daxon set for possible replacements.
– Golston’s minor contribution to the Cowboys’ defensive line and the low cost of his release makes him a potential candidate for the chop.
– The Cowboys could save $1.3 million if they decide to release Golston.
The Dallas Cowboys, like every other NFL team, will have to make some tough decisions before the onset of the 2024 season. Among the key names likely to be cut from the crew is third-round draft pick Chauncey Golston despite his significant contribution as a backup defensive lineman.
Evolution of Chauncey Golston at Cowboys
Golston, 26, is set to begin his fourth season with the Dallas Cowboys, having been selected as a third-round draft pick in 2021. He has been a reliable backup during his time in Dallas, playing in 41% of the team’s defensive snaps in 2021, 23% in 2022, and 29% in 2023. Golston’s performance metrics have been steadily consistent with a tally of at least 22 tackles in each season while missing just four games in total. Collectively, he has totaled 79 tackles, nine quarterback hits, and 3.5 sacks in his stint at the Cowboys.
Despite Golston never being a first-choice for Cowboys, his contribution as a backup has been significant. Furthermore, he has been ranked respectably at 43rd out of 130 players according to Pro Football Focus, securing a 66.8 defensive grade and 75.0 pass-rushing grade.
The Emerging Scenario
However, the Cowboys have a slew of options on their defensive line, and their focus on rookies Justin Rogers and Denzel Daxon is creating an atmosphere of fierce competition. The potential of Golston being cut has been touted by renowned sports analysts like David Kenyon of Bleacher Report and Sayre Bedinger from FanSided. Interestingly, this isn’t the first occasion Golston’s name has surfaced as a potential cut as per Bedinger’s March report.
While defending the Cowboys’ inclination towards player loyalty, Bedinger singled out Golston saying, “This is a former third-round pick who has not done anything of note for the Cowboys…”
A Financially Prudent Decision?
It’s noteworthy that the Dallas Cowboys would experience a minimum dead cap hit of $233,925 if they decide to let Golston go. Simultaneously, they could amass cap savings of about $1.3 million. Given that Golston is yet to secure a permanent place in the defensive line of the team, the Cowboys might be inclined towards rookie talent that is younger, cheaper, and possesses higher potential.
Despite the looming uncertainty, the Cowboys’ final decision will be largely influenced by understanding Golston’s projected value and the potential payoff of rookies Rogers and Daxon in their defensive line-up.
In the end, the decision to retain Golston will involve weighing his consistent track record against the promising potential of the rookies. What remains certain is that the upcoming season is set to be a stern test both for Golston and the Cowboys as they make these challenging decisions.