The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly signed free agent defensive tackle Greg Hardy.
Pro Football Talk reports that Hardy has signed a one-year deal with a base salary of $750,000. The contract is loaded with incentives, with Hardy capable of earning up to $13.1 million through per-game roster bonuses and workout bonuses.
As many of you know, Hardy is a tremendous talent who has had some serious off-field issues. He missed all but one game with the Carolina Panthers last year after he was arrested for domestic violence. Hardy’s ex-girlfriend Nicole Holder told police that the 26-year-old strangled her and threatened to kill her. The case was dismissed last month after Holder did not show up in court to testify, presumably because she and Hardy reached some sort of settlement on the side.
Should Hardy find himself in trouble off the field again, he will likely be placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List immediately and not be eligible to practice or play. A one-year deal allows him to potentially prove he can keep his nose clean.
There is no questioning Hardy’s ability on the field. He is one of the premier pass-rushers in football and has recorded 27 sacks in his last 32 games. The reported deal offers little risk for the Cowboys and could pay off if Hardy remains focused.
