Dallas Cowboys

Scandrick pauses holdout, joins Cowboys to talk contract

Published May. 12, 2015 1:19 p.m. ET

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Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick was not in attendance during the first official offseason voluntary workouts a few weeks ago at Valley Ranch. A source told the Dallas Morning News that Scandrick remained in California, where he’s working out on his own, and was prepared to stay there until the Cowboys addressed his contract. On Tuesday, Calvin Hill of the Star Telegram reported that Scandrick has temporarily ended his holdout and is in town meeting with the Cowboys about his contract situation.

Why the change of heart? If Scandrick doesn't participate in 90 percent of the Cowboys’ offseason workouts at Valley Ranch, he will lose out on $500,000 thanks to a de-escalator in his contract. The 28-year old cornerback is signed through the next three seasons at $3 million per year.

After moving from slot cornerback to the outside in 2014, following an injury to Mo Claiborne, Scandrick asserted himself as the team's most dominant cornerback. He finished as Pro Football Focus' 10th-best cornerback in the entire NFL. He also managed to make it through the entire season allowing zero touchdowns while in coverage and less than 10 yards per catch on just 52 receptions.

As free agency continues to wind down, the Cowboys are less likely to make any more free agent acquisitions. With the money saved, they can look to extend Scandrick's contract and provide Dez Bryant with a long-term deal suitable to his importance to the team.

(h/t Blogging The Boys)

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports