The Dallas Cowboys faced scrutiny during the offseason for their inactivity in free agency, particularly regarding their own pending free agents. As the season progressed, it became clearer which decisions were wise and which were missteps.

Dorance Armstrong's departure to the Washington Commanders proved beneficial for Dallas, as he hasn't performed up to his new contract. Conversely, letting Dante Fowler, Jr. go was a mistake, as he excelled with the Commanders.

While the Cowboys made a smart choice in not re-signing Tyler Biadasz, who has thrived in Washington, they erred in not keeping Tony Pollard, who is on track for another strong season with the Tennessee Titans. Finally, the decision to part ways with Tyron Smith, despite his past success, was justified due to his injury history.