4 Dallas Cowboys pending free agents who won’t be back in 2022

Dec 2, 2021; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Gallup (13) is tackled by New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 2, 2021; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Gallup (13) is tackled by New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
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Dallas Cowboys
Keanu Neal, Dallas Cowboys. Mandatory Credit: Billy Hardiman-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys have been much better in 2021 than they were a season ago, but these four players may still be on the outside looking in come 2022

After a win over Washington in Week 14, the Dallas Cowboys are now in firm control of the NFC East at 9-4. The Football Team was their biggest threat after a four-game winning streak, but now at 6-7, they seem too far back to make a run.

Dallas winning the East wouldn’t be a shock to anyone either, considering how talented their roster is — especially on offense. The Cowboys have more playmakers than any other NFC East team, but they also have some heading to free agency in 2022.

And sometimes when a team does find success, it’s hard to keep their upcoming free agents — as they may be seeking more money elsewhere. Here are four such players who could be gone this offseason.

Dallas Cowboys free agent who will be gone No. 4: Keanu Neal, LB

Keanu Neal followed Dan Quinn to Dallas after the two spent several years together in Atlanta. A standout strong safety for the Falcons, Neal moved to linebacker this season as Quinn had a vision for him in this defense.

So far, that vision has worked. Neal has 56 tackles and a sack on the season as he’s been a solid player. He was even good enough to allow them to feel comfortable moving on from the high-priced Jaylon Smith.

The problem is, Neal hasn’t been a star in Dallas. He’s been solid but they’re likely going to be willing to replace him with a cheaper, and younger option, meaning Neal might go get paid somewhere else.