For the first time since walking away from the 49ers contract, Eric Kendricks explains why he chose the Cowboys over them.
The one who managed to escape.
That’s what San Francisco 49ers linebacker Eric Kendricks was when free agency started. Before the Dallas Cowboys arrived and grabbed him from the 49ers, Kendricks had a one-year contract in place with them.
For the first time since walking away from the 49ers contract, Kendricks disclosed to Jon Machota of The Athletic the reason he decided to sign with the Cowboys instead of staying with them.
“I believe that in San Francisco, I would have accepted a more reserve role,” Kendricks remarked (via Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk).
On the other hand, I feel like I still have a lot to give, and I wanted to play middle linebacker here. I wanted to command the huddle, impart my leadership skills, and share my expertise with the squad.”
Kendricks makes excellent sense in this. He was never going to sign a contract with the 49ers and start at the top. The 49ers weren’t searching for a linebacker in free agency that would fit that description. The 49ers were hoping for a stand-in while Dre Greenlaw healed from an Achilles tear.
For this reason, after Kendricks left, they signed De’Vondre Campbell. Kendricks is sensible, then, to not want to settle for less.
Under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, he will now be able to play in a defense scheme that is familiar to him. He’ll be able to perform at his peak as a result, which may pave the way for a pleasant little payday during the upcoming free agency season.
Although it was first embarrassing, it makes much too much sense as to why Kendricks abandoned the 49ers at the alter.
