After posting 14.5 sacks last season, tied for second-most in the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys opted to use their franchise tag to retain defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence for 2018. They’ll do so at a cost of just over $17 million.
But there is also a chance the Cowboys can sign Lawrence to a long-term deal this month. Dallas has until July 16th to get a new contract signed or the 26-year old pass rusher will play on the franchise tag instead.
According to Calvin Watkins of The Athletic, Lawrence’s representatives and the Cowboys are expected to meet next week to discuss such a deal.