3 Dallas Cowboys who need contract extensions in 2020
By Randy Gurzi
3. Chidobe Awuzie, Cornerback
The curious case of Chidobe Awuzie will continue in 2020 and due to the team’s current salary cap situation, he could be the No. 1 cornerback on the Cowboys this year. That’s a scary proposition given the way he’s played as of late but with the contract situation as it is with Byron Jones, this is highly likely.
Making it seem even more likely is the fact that the team hasn’t come out and said re-signing Jones this season is a major priority, which is what they did with Ezekiel Elliott in 2019 and Dak Prescott this season.
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"“He’s a starting-caliber NFL corner,” vice president of player personnel Will McClay said via Michael Gehlken of Dallas News. “A really good player. We have to figure out his financial value and if it fits for us.”"
Of course, the debate on Jones can go on for days. Some love him because he can shut down one side of the field when he’s on his game. However, there are those who believe he’s overrated because he doesn’t generate turnovers — two interceptions in his career.
However, this debate is for a different day. Instead, we are looking at Awuzie as a player who absolutely has to be extended should Jones be allowed to leave. But fans will debate on this one as well.
Since joining Dallas as a second-round pick in 2017, Awuzie has been up and down. He has some games where he looks great and others where he looks lost. But some of that has been due to coaching.
Former defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli and defensive back coach Kris Richard liked their corners playing the man, meaning they were never looking for the ball. This led to countless penalties as refs will always throw the flag when there is contact and the defender isn’t looking for the ball.
The new staff, led by defensive coordinator Mike Nolan, isn’t expected to do this. That plays into Awuzie’s hands, as he was much better at Colorado when allowed to play the ball. Assuming he does have an uptick in play, the Boys need to lock him up for a few seasons.