NFL free agency

[Kirobaito]

News from Valley Ranch - 03/02/05
by CASEY GRAHAM

The first day of the NFL's free-agency period was a busy one for Bill Parcells and the Cowboys. Already, the Cowboys have agreed on contracts with defensive tackle Jason Ferguson from the New York Jets and cornerback Anthony Henry of the Cleveland Browns. While the terms of Ferguson's contract have not been released, it is reported that Henry signed for four years at $12 million, with a $5 million signing bonus.

Ferguson, going into his ninth NFL season out of Georgia, has played in 48 straight games since missing the entire 2001 season due to a torn rotator cuff. He will present a significant upgrade over the defensive tackle opposition next to La'Roi Glover, occupied by Leonardo Carson for most of 2004. If the Cowboys choose to switch to a 3-4 defense, he can also play nose tackle to anchor the defensive line, with Glover switching to defensive end.

Henry has been a valuable part of the Browns' secondary in his 4 NFL seasons. In his career, he has recorded 247 tackles and 17 interceptions, including 10 his rookie season. Henry will solidify the right cornerback spot for the Cowboys, who used five different starters there in 2004 (Pete Hunter, Bruce Thornton, Jacques Reeves, Tyrone Williams, Lance Frazier).

Additionally, guard Marco Rivera is expected to arrive at Valley Ranch tonight. He is expected to be heavily pursued by prospective teams.