It has been over a week since the start of NFL free agency, and the Dallas Cowboys have made significant headlines with only one external acquisition so far. The latest addition to the team is linebacker Eric Kendricks, a player many anticipated would join the Cowboys due to his previous connection with the new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer. While Kendricks’ move to Dallas wasn’t entirely unexpected, the manner in which it unfolded caught many off guard, sparking curiosity about the dynamics behind his decision.

Initially, rumors circulated that Kendricks would be signing with the San Francisco 49ers. However, just about 12 hours after those reports, he made a surprising turn and opted to play for the Cowboys instead. This sudden change left many speculating what influenced Kendricks’ decision, which he later clarified during an interview.

“I felt like it was a really hard decision,” Kendricks expressed on Friday following the signing of his one-year contract. “(The 49ers) are an excellent organization with a wonderful program. Ultimately, I wanted the opportunity to play MIKE and bet on myself. Especially at this point in my career, I have a lot left to prove. I feel great and I’m moving well. To play MIKE with this defense and alongside the talented guys we have is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I’m very happy with this decision.”

“The level of detail and the amount of football knowledge I gained with Zimmer was tremendous,” Kendricks noted. “I will never take that for granted, which is why I’m excited to be back with him. Just being at the facility today, everything feels real now. I’m thrilled to play; football has always been my passion. I love being a middle linebacker, and it feels right to be back in Coach Zimmer’s system.”

Eric Kendricks Chooses Cowboys Over 49ers, Reportedly Accepts Lower Offer

In a surprising turn of events, Kendricks decided to join the Cowboys even though the contract he received was relatively modest. According to recent analyses from ESPN, which covered the entire landscape of free agency, it was noted that Kendricks apparently accepted a lesser offer from Dallas compared to what he was presented by San Francisco.

Key Additions: Eric Kendricks (LB)

Key Departures: Tyron Smith (OT), Tony Pollard (RB), Dorance Armstrong (DE)

Did the Cowboys achieve their free agency goals? No, but the free agency period is far from over. The Cowboys were never inclined to spend exorbitantly on free agents, and they established clear limitations regarding the compensation for their own players. Currently, the roster appears to be less formidable than the one that made it to the playoffs in 2023.

Insider Insight: Reports indicate that Kendricks accepted a lower salary with the Cowboys compared to the 49ers. This could be attributed to the strong influence of new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer or the significant differences in the cost of living and tax rates between Texas and Northern California.

Biggest Remaining Roster Need: Just one? The departure of Smith is particularly impactful, making it essential for the team to find a reliable replacement at left tackle early in the draft. Additionally, with no starting tailback currently on the roster, this situation will put to the test the theory that “you can find running backs anywhere.” — Todd Archer

While there’s speculation surrounding the financial aspect of his decision, it appears that Kendricks, as he mentioned earlier, felt a strong pull towards reuniting with Mike Zimmer and the chance to play MIKE linebacker in the Cowboys’ defensive setup were the primary factors that guided his choice.