The Dallas Cowboys—2014 NFC East Champions—now have two former Salukis on its roster after separate offseason moves. 

Fullback Ray Agnew signed a two-year deal with the Cowboys on March 13. He said although he had opportunities from other teams, the Cowboys felt like the right spot.

“It’s a great opportunity, and they run the ball a lot,” he said. “I couldn’t be happier.” 

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Agnew served as the primary blocker for the rushing attack for four years before graduating in 2013. He played in all 45 games of his career and finished with 8 pass receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown. 

Agnew will be reunited with former SIU teammate Kenneth Boatright, who graduated in 2012 and is a Super Bowl XLVIII champion with the Seattle Seahawks.

The defensive end signed a three-year deal worth $510,000 per year on Aug. 1. He has one career game on Dec. 28 with the Cowboys against the Washington Redskins. He recorded a solo tackle in the 44-17 win.  

Agnew said he is looking forward to reuniting with his former teammate.

“[Boatright] was one of my favorite teammates,” he said. “It’ll be great to see him again and have someone you know and can talk to on a new team.”

In one year with the Cleveland Browns, Agnew had 2 rushing and 17 receiving yards in nine starts. 

Agnew joins two fullbacks already on the roster. 

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“[The Cowboys] are going to give me the opportunity to compete for the job,” he said. “I have confidence in my ability to win the spot so I’m not worried about it. Things will shake out.” 

Agnew joins four-year players Tyler Clutts and Jed Collins. Clutts has played 56 career games with 53 rushing and 21 kick return yards. Collins has played 63 career games with 68 rushing yards, 213 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. Both players have also played on the defensive side of the ball. 

Another offseason acquisition for the Cowboys was running back Darren McFadden. Agnew said he looks forward to working with the seven-year veteran. 

“The key to lasting a long time in the NFL is learning from the veterans you’re around,” he said. “They obviously know something, so taking their advice is vital for a long career.”

The Cowboys finished with a 12-4 record last season and Agnew said he wants to help the team go further in the playoffs. 

“As long as you have a great quarterback like [Tony] Romo and playmakers like [wide receiver] Dez Bryant on your team, we’ll be fine,” he said. “They surprised some people last year. … Hopefully we’ll move further along in the playoffs.”

Brent Meske can be reached at [email protected] or 536-3311 ext. 269.