Source: Still possible Cowboys could re-sign DeMarcus Ware despite his release
By David Moore
dmoore@dallasnews.com
5:23 pm on March 11, 2014 |
DeMarcus Ware believes he can make more money in free agency than the Cowboys are willing to pay, but is open to returning to the club if the market doesn’t support his stance, a source said.
Call it a trial separation.
Ware and owner Jerry Jones met Tuesday at Valley Ranch in an attempt to avoid the player’s release. That didn’t happen. But a source with knowledge of the discussion said the two men parted with this understanding:
Ware knows to get the sort of contract he expects the offer will likely come in the first few days of free agency. If that offer doesn’t come he has told the Cowboys he would be willing to return. The source said Ware also indicated that before he signs with another team he will inform the Cowboys of the offer.
The Cowboys will leave the door open. The club has told the seven-time Pro Bowler they want him on the roster in 2014 but at a base salary significantly less than the $12.25 million he was scheduled to receive.
The source stressed that neither side has ruled out that they will be able to find an acceptable middle ground. Owner Jerry Jones acknowledged as much in the release the club issued Tuesday afternoon announcing Ware’s release.
“DeMarcus and I agreed on an understanding that would allow him to explore the options he will have for the 2014 season and beyond,’’ Jones said. “We were also in very strong agreement that playing for the Dallas Cowboys would be one of the options we would both be exploring.’’
It will not be a prolonged exploration. Both sides recognize the need to move swiftly. If Ware doesn’t return, the Cowboys must use the $7.4 million freed up by Ware’s release and the $1.1 million it already had to find his replacements at defensive end.
The relationship may continue. But for now, the two have parted ways.