Dallas Cowboys: 5 Realistic targets in 2019 NFL free agency
By Randy Gurzi
1. Landon Collins, FS, New York Giants
Tight end has already been identified as a big need for the Cowboys going forward, but a greater need exists at safety. In 2018, the Dallas defense turned a corner with the help of former Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Kris Richard — who joined as the passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach.
Part of Richard’s duties included calling the plays on defense and the results where phenomenal as they gave up just 20.2 points per game — which was sixth in the league according to NFL.com — and 329.2 total yards which landed them at No. 7.
As good as they were, there was something missing. The corners played well, DeMarcus Lawrence was a one-man wrecking crew on the defensive line, and the duo of Leighton Vander Esch and Jaylon Smith may have been the best linebackers in 2019. However, the play of their safeties left a lot to be desired.
While there were dots being connected all of last season to Earl Thomas — who is a free agent — there could be another option who is even younger. Landon Collins of the New York Giants is set to hit the open market, and at just 25 years old he may be a better investment than the 30-year old Thomas.
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Collins is a name familiar to the Cowboys as well as the former second-round pick has been with the New York Giants since 2015. During that time, he’s recorded 428 tackles (with a career low of 96 in 12 games last season) and eight interceptions. Collins also has three forced fumbles and 32 pass defenses.
He won’t come cheap, but he’s the exact kind of impact player that can take a very good defense and push them into the elite category.