The Dallas Cowboys have 16 players set to become unrestricted free agents in March. In this series, we determine why a player should or should not return in 2016 and beyond.
Position: Fullback
Age: 31
NFL experience: Six years
2015 salary: $745,000
2015 statistics: He played in every game with five starts. He did not have a carry and remains without a carry for his career. He caught one pass for 4 yards.
Why he will be back: The Cowboys signed Jed Collins early in free agency last year after they thought Clutts would have been out of their price range. He ended up signing in May and the Cowboys cut Collins. In training camp he showed value by being able to line up at tailback because of injuries at the position. With teams knowing they have that kind of flexibility in their back pocket, it helps a player to continue to earn a roster spot. The Cowboys don't have another fullback in the pipeline and he will not cost very much.
Why he will not be back: It comes down to snaps. He never played more than 13 in a game in 2015. Do the Cowboys feel like they can get by with a tight end to play the 8-9 snaps a game Clutts averaged last season? In the past they have been more willing to go with extra tight ends, but they have carried a fullback the past two full seasons. With their run-first mentality there is merit to keeping a fullback, but do the Cowboys look to get younger (and cheaper) at the spot in 2016?
Chance to return: Moderate. He will not cost much and he is a solid locker room presence. The days of the blow-them-up fullback are gone. He can catch the ball out of the backfield. He knows all of the responsibilities for a tailback, including pass protection, which is key.
The series:
Robert Turbin provided relief
Charles Brown filled role but is not needed in 2016
Hard to see Josh Thomas in plans
Matt Cassel plan went awry