As we gear up for the 2024 NFL season, there are pivotal decisions being made by teams around the league.
The Cowboys are supposedly "all-in." As to WR Michael Gallup, that apparently means all-out. https://t.co/dWVaDP5eLE
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 10, 2024
One such key decision is by the Dallas Cowboys, who reportedly have given star receiver Michael Gallup permission to seek a trade, according to trusted sports reporter Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News.
Michael Gallup, now entering his third year of a five-year contract worth $57.5 million, is guaranteed a salary of $8.5 million in 2024.
Of this, $4 million is secured for injury, it will become entirely guaranteed on March 18. As this deadline draws closer, the Cowboys team management is under pressure to make a quick decision.
Despite the willingness to make the trade, there lies a roadblock. As Watkins highlights, other teams in the league expect Gallup to be released from the team instead of being traded.
This anticipation stalls potential trades and could possibly leave the Cowboys dealing with the aftermath.
If the Cowboys do decide to trade Gallup away, they can rid themselves of his hefty salary. However, the trade would leave the Cowboys with a dead-cap charge of $13.05 million, which is no small figure.
If they opt to cut him post-June 1, the financial implications would still remain. The team would still bear the burden of $4.35 million hitting their cap in 2024, and a larger $8.7 million in 2025.
Despite these financial quandaries, one cannot downplay Gallup’s contributions to the Cowboys. He hauled in 34 passes for 418 yards and scored two touchdowns in last season.
However, it is to be noted that he hasn’t generated more than 445 receiving yards in a single season since 2020.
While the Cowboys are at a crossroad, there’s also an air of uncertainty looming over Gallup’s future with the team.
The decision doesn’t appear to be a straightforward one, and it could potentially impact the Cowboys’ plans for the upcoming season.
This is not an easy decision for the Cowboys. Their financial structure, as well as their competitive strategy, hinges heavily on this decision.
The next few days will prove crucial for the team as they weigh their options and consider their future course.
