Cowboys Free Agency 2012: Cornerback, Offensive Line Are Needs

The Dallas Cowboys went 8-8 in 2011 and missed out on making the playoffs when they were defeated by the New York Giants, who went on to win the Super Bowl, in the last game of the season. The major areas of need for the Cowboys heading into the 2012 season are in the secondary and on the offensive line. Luckily for the Cowboys, both positions they need are somewhat deep and talented in this year's free agency class.

The biggest-named player likely leaving the Cowboys in 2012 is wide receiver Laurent Robinson, who had a great season in 2011 as Miles Austin's replacement when the veteran receiver was injured. There are plenty of teams looking to boost their group of receivers and teams like the Patriots, Rams or the Bengals could be interested in Robinson. Anthony Spencer, DeMarcus Ware's pass-rushing partner, was set to become a free agent, but the Cowboys used their franchise tag on him.

When it comes to players that the Cowboys could bring to Dallas, Brandon Carr and Cortland Finnegan could be targeted as new starting cornerbacks, and Ben Grubbs or Carl Nicks could be targeted to shore up the interior offensive line, opening holes for the running game and keeping Tony Romo off his back. The Cowboys don't have a ton of money to spend but they likely have enough to make a big signing or two.