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Cowboys Reload Pass Rush with $11M Ex-Pro Bowler Cast Off by Lions

May 22, 2025
Frisco, TX

The Dallas Cowboys have made a notable move by entering negotiations to sign veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, who was released by the Detroit Lions in April. At 32 years old, Smith remains a significant threat, recording 9 sacks in the 2024 season despite limited playing time. The Lions’ decision to cut him was purely financial—they couldn’t afford his $11 million salary—not due to his performance.

The Cowboys, having lost Dorance Armstrong and with DeMarcus Lawrence potentially nearing retirement, are in need of a player like Smith to maintain their defensive strength. The team finished 2024 ranked 6th in sacks, but their Wild Card loss highlighted a lack of experience and finishing ability. Smith, a two-time Pro Bowler, could be the perfect piece alongside Micah Parsons, creating a dual threat for opposing offenses. “Putting Smith opposite Parsons on third down is a dangerous move,” ESPN analyst Louis Riddick noted.

With $15.8 million in cap space, the Cowboys can offer Smith a one-year deal worth $10–11 million, potentially with incentives. Beyond his ability to pressure quarterbacks, Smith brings stability in run defense and veteran leadership to a young Cowboys squad. However, risks remain—Smith is 32 and injury-prone. If managed well, he could help the Cowboys go deeper in the 2025 season. This is a gamble, but one worth taking for a Super Bowl run.

Owner David Tepper Admits He Lacks the Competence to Run Football Operations
Can you believe it? David Tepper, the "notorious" owner of the Carolina Panthers, has finally "confessed" a truth that team fans have been waiting for years: He doesn't have enough ability to handle everything himself! But hold on, this isn't a "disaster" – it's a "positive twist" that's saving the Panthers! Is Tepper "letting go" to let the team soar? Read now to uncover the "secret" behind this shocking statement! David Tepper, the billionaire famous for his "deep interference" style in the Carolina Panthers, has undergone an astonishing positive change in ownership. Instead of "micromanaging" every decision like before, Tepper is now less involved, allowing football operations to run independently under the guidance of experts. The result? The team is achieving stability and success beyond expectations, currently tied for first in the NFC South with potential to return to the playoffs after many "sinking" seasons! At the annual charity event Joy to the Carolinas on December 9, 2025, Tepper expressed confidence in the organization's new direction, implicitly admitting that he's not a "superhero" who can run everything himself. He said: "It's not bad at all. It's pretty good; it's all just building blocks, and we'll see where we go. We'll see what happens. We think, as I've said, Dave Canales, Dan Morgan, Brandt Tilis, and everyone in the organization, we're building something special in Carolina. And we've built it outside the community. We're building it on the field, so that's the overall picture. Hopefully, we can continue and have that for many years. That's what we're looking for." This "confession" is actually a wise acknowledgment: Tepper recognizes past mistakes when pushing for quick results, leading to a series of disastrous failures like continuous coach firings and poor draft choices. Now, he supports his professional picks – like head coach Dave Canales, general manager Dan Morgan, and vice president Brandt Tilis – without "interfering." Instead, Tepper focuses on infrastructure (like stadium upgrades) and community efforts, transforming himself from a "demanding boss" to a "silent supporter"! The Panthers are exceeding expectations at the end of the season, with solid gameplay and higher team spirit than ever. Optimism is spreading without the "must-win now" pressure – something that once caused the team to "break apart" under old Tepper. Fans, after years of "disappointment," now appreciate Tepper's enthusiasm and improved role as a true asset. Many fans on social media comment: "Finally, Tepper knows to 'let go' – and the Panthers are soaring because of it!" Some even predict that if this approach is maintained, the Panthers could become the "big boss" of the NFC South for many years to come. But is this "admission" a sign that Tepper is about to sell the team? Or just a "ploy" to appease fans? The Panthers ownership scandal is "hotter than ever" – and Tepper's words could change the team's history! What do you think, is Tepper really "incompetent" or is he "playing fair"? Comment now and follow for the next NFL "drama"!