The Dallas Cowboys are strongly encouraged to secure the services of a proven “difference-maker” and Super Bowl champion.

The Dallas Cowboys are being urged to consider signing Chris Jones, the Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive tackle, who is arguably the best player at his position. Jones, 29, is set to become a free agent in the upcoming offseason after agreeing to a one-year deal with the Chiefs just before the current season commenced.

Chiefs DT Chris Jones is Issue No. 1 for Bills' offense

According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, the Cowboys should prioritize signing Jones due to their average run defense. Knox argues that Jones, recognized as the NFL’s premier defensive tackle, could significantly enhance the Cowboys’ front line against the run. Despite recently drafting Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith in the first round, Knox believes Smith was always intended as a developmental prospect.

The Cowboys struggled in run defense during losses to elite teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills, and Green Bay Packers, allowing an average of 193 rushing yards per game in those matchups. Their overall run defense ranked 16th in rushing yards and 15th in yards per attempt allowed during the season, highlighting a clear weakness entering the offseason.

Jones, entering his age-30 season in 2024, remains an elite player, recently securing his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl selection and second First-Team All-Pro selection after recording 30 tackles and 10.5 sacks in the 2023 season.

However, the potential hurdle for the Cowboys lies in the financial aspect. Jones is expected to be one of the top free agents on the market, with a market value of $28.1 million per season for a three-year total of $84.6 million, making him the second-highest paid defensive tackle in the league. Currently facing a salary cap deficit of $11 million and ranking 26th in the league, the Cowboys would need to create cap space and make roster moves to have a chance at signing Jones.

PFF KC Chiefs on X: "Highest graded Chiefs in Week 6 vs Bills: 🥇 Chris Jones - 93.2 🥈 Mecole Hardman - 78.2 🥉 Travis Kelce - 77.7 4️⃣ Frank Clark - 76.2 5️⃣ JuJu Smith-Schuster - 75.4 https://t.co/fBSxbjlLIM" / X

Despite these challenges, Knox emphasizes that Jones could be a game-changer for the Cowboys, addressing their primary weakness and potentially propelling them to greater success. While acknowledging the financial constraints and the team’s other priorities, such as contract extensions for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, Knox suggests that adding Jones could be the missing piece for the Cowboys to overcome their current obstacles.