Brandon Carr unable to live up to contract expectations for Cowboys

After the 2011 NFL season it was clear the Dallas Cowboys needed a cornerback. According to many, the reason they flopped at the end and failed to reach the playoffs was the secondary. They targeted Brandon Carr and signed him to a five-year deal worth 50.1 million.

Looking back, did they overpay? Sure, everyone overpays in the first 24 hours of free agency. They filled a need and Carr did an adequate job of doing that in 2013.

Former defensive coordinator Rob Ryan said “If we need to shut somebody down, or put him on a bigger guy, I’m sure Brandon will be up to the challenge.” He called Carr better than expected. ”He can cover anybody. He’s got long arms, great length and he’s a great person who works his tail off.”

In 2013 Carr was more of a streaky player, not exactly consistent . In his first three games Carr was spectacular only allowing 56 total yards and no touchdowns. After a rough middle part of the season Carr heated up again allowing only 32 yards per game in the Cowboys last four games. Targeted 87 times he only deflected 11 passes, his lowest total since his rookie season in 2008.

He would finish the season with 53 tackles and three interceptions including a touchdown and had a strong season for the Cowboys.

While Carr played well, he didn’t play worth the 10 million he received, but not many would.

It’s exactly what is wrong with the NFL and free agency. A top-notch player like Carr can’t live up to his own contract because it is so inflated the expectations are impossible to reach.