It's when the Cowboys begin, in earnest, the process of assembling a roster for next season. The Cowboys' coaches and scouts have been evaluating players for the past month, however Jones said Friday is the first day the Cowboys can start putting their plans into action. To clear room, the Cowboys are reworking the contracts of several players, and could release a few others on Thursday. None is expected to start next season. Contract extensions could be in order for quarterback Troy Aikman and cornerback Deion Sanders.
Sanders can become a free agent at the end of next season.
The Cowboys had preliminary discussions with Sanders' agent, Eugene Parker. Aikman's agent, Leigh Steinberg, said nothing has been discussed, but he said an extension is not beyond reason considering Aikman wants to play several more years and in light of the contracts being signed by other quarterbacks. Jones said the biggest difference between the 1999 season and past years is the team isn't facing a major decision regarding one of its own unrestricted free agents. The Cowboys' priority is restricted free agent Randall Godfrey. Other in-house priorities include receiver Ernie Mills, linebacker Broderick Thomas and guard Nate Newton, who are unrestricted free agents but are not expected to command huge salaries.