Report: Cowboys agree to deal with defensive end Greg Hardy
Jeffrey Kahn - 27 minutes ago 19
(Photo: Dale Zanine, USA TODAY Sports)
The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to a deal with defensive end Greg Hardy.
According to NBC's Dianna Marie Russini, the 'Boys landed the dominant pass rusher they were looking for:
Hardy has been in town since Tuesday afternoon. While it was clear that COO Stephen Jones' intent was to sign Hardy on the visit, the Cowboys also used the time to get to know the pass rusher better — a dinner, overnight stay, and a Wednesday morning physical were all included.
Hardy spent five impressive seasons with the Carolina Panthers, but had off-field issues. In a May of 2014 article, the Charlotte Observer addressed Hardy's problems:
"Hardy is disruptive on the field for the Panthers – a team historically concerned about its image – but he can be similarly unsettling off the field. That leads to uncertainty in the Panthers organization about Hardy’s long-term status with the team."
In an early March article, John Machota of the Dallas Morning News believed owner/GM Jerry Jones would be open to signing Hardy, despite the troubles:
"There are some serious red flags there. But if he's willing to give the Cowboys a team-friendly deal, I wouldn't be surprised if Jerry Jones gave him a shot. Not sure there's anyone in the NFL more sympathetic than Jerry Jones when it comes to giving guys second chances."
Hardy's "second chance" won't exactly come with a clean slate. According to Cowboys insider Mike Fisher, Hardy is looking at a four-game suspension to start the 2015 NFL season:
Regardless, the Cowboys desperately needed to upgrade their pass rush this offseason and they'll get that with the signing of the "Kraken." Before sitting out last season (played in one game), Hardy collected 15 sacks in 2013 and 11 in 2012. The Ole Miss product also went to Hawaii for the Pro Bowl in 2013 while making second team All-Pro. Watch Hardy's highlights in the video embedded below.
At 6-4, 275 lbs., Hardy gives tackles difficulty with his impressive footwork and imposing strength. And at 26 years old, he's just approaching his prime in the NFL.
There's no doubt Hardy will be a great fit for the 'Boys, the numbers don't lie. The question is, will he stay out of trouble in Dallas?