Stephen Jones says Dallas Cowboys have not closed door on free agent LB Anthony Barr
The Dallas Cowboys have been flirting with the idea of signing free agent linebacker Anthony Barr to bolster their depth at the position since May.
And although they opened training camp without making a move on Barr, vice president Stephen Jones said the four-time Pro Bowler remains a viable option.
He said the team wanted to take a look at second-year linebacker Jabril Cox and other linebackers in training camp before making a final decision on Barr, who has played eight seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.
Cox played seven games last year before suffering a season-ending torn ACL. His recovery has gone so well that he was not put on physically unable to perform list to start camp and is a full participant, though the Cowboys plan to be cautious when him.
If all goes well, the athletic Cox, a 2021 fourth-round pick, could push Leighton Vander Esch for the starting spot opposite Micah Parsons.
But given the injury histories of Cox and Vander Esch, who returned on a one-year deal, the Cowboys are looking at veteran insurance options.
They signed former Texas star Malik Jefferson, who has been with four teams since being picked in the third round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2018.
But the door is not closed on Barr, Jones said.
With roughly $22 million in cap room available, the Cowboys have the space to add Barr to the roster.
At age 30, Barr is not the player he once was. But he is a versatile, athletic and proven performer would complement Parsons.
Barr recorded 72 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3 interceptions and 5 pass deflections in 11 games in 2021 for the Vikings.
This story was originally published July 28, 2022 at 6:00 AM.
