Big Free Agent Move: Randall Cobb
While it wasn’t as controversial as cutting Dez Bryant, fans were upset this offseason when the Cowboys didn’t retain slot receiver Cole Beasley. A fan favorite, Beasley went from an undrafted kid from SMU to one of the more reliable third-down targets.
In his final season with Dallas, Beasley pulled in 65 receptions for 672 yards and three scores. Afterward, he expressed frustration with his lack of targets and blamed the front office. He then attacked them for not making an offer until after the Buffalo Bills did. It was a sad way to see the relationship end, but the Cowboys proved that they were making a sound business decision by replacing Beasley with a more accomplished — and younger — player in Randall Cobb.
The former Green Bay Packers wideout was added on a one-year deal for just $5 million — whereas Beasley landed roughly $7 million per season. While Cobb did have some injury concerns in 2018, he proved to still have some explosiveness as he recorded a career-high 75-yard reception in Week 1.
A dangerous player in the slot, Cobb is also able to line up out wide and in the backfield. He’s considered one of the more intelligent players at his position and even adds some special teams prowess. Cobb averages 9.3 yards per punt return in his career with two touchdowns and 25.9 on kickoffs with another score. He hasn’t handled these duties near as much in recent years, but it’s something he can do in a pinch if needed.
Dallas’ patience in free agency drove fans crazy but in the end, they ended up making some solid moves. Cobb could wind up being the best of those moves provided he can stay healthy.