FRISCO, Texas -- The Dallas Cowboys know one thing as they head into 2018: There will be change.
The Cowboys have 11 unrestricted free agents, two restricted free agents and two exclusive-rights free agents as they play their 2017 season finale Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.
The biggest issues for the Cowboys will be what to do with DeMarcus Lawrence and Anthony Hitchens. Lawrence blossomed as a pass-rusher with a healthy season, but the Cowboys won’t let him leave. Hitchens is overlooked by many outside the franchise, but the Cowboys might not be able to match an offer made to him.
Here is a look at the Cowboys’ impending free agents:
Unrestricted (11)
RB Alfred Morris -- He did a nice job filling in for Ezekiel Elliott for six games, but he could get a chance for a larger role, especially with the Cowboys liking the development of Rod Smith.
WR Brice Butler -- He has been slowed lately by a foot injury, but he has made big plays with 13 catches for 267 yards and 2 touchdowns. His future here could be tied to what happens with Dez Bryant
OT Byron Bell -- He has served as a backup swing tackle and started one game with Tyron Smith's assortment of injuries. He could return as an insurance policy in 2018.
OL Jonathan Cooper -- He will start his 13th game at left guard Sunday, finishing a full season for the first time in his career. He hasn’t been Ronald Leary, but he was good enough.
OL Joe Looney -- He has spent the last two years as the backup interior lineman at guard and center. His versatility could lead to his return. Plus, he is a great locker room guy.
DE DeMarcus Lawrence -- He picked the right time to have his best season (14.5 sacks), but there is little chance he hits the open market. If the Cowboys can’t do a deal with him, he will get the franchise tag.
DT Stephen Paea -- He won the starter’s job out of training camp but was limited to four games because of a knee injury. He was placed on injured reserve but is likely headed to retirement.
LB Anthony Hitchens -- He is one of the more underrated players on the roster. With the injury questions surrounding Sean Lee and Jaylon Smith, he is a vital piece but other teams might outbid the Cowboys.
LB Kyle Wilber -- He has been a solid special-teams contributor and can play multiple spots on the defense, but at some point, the price tag gets too high for a backup.
CB Bene Benwikere -- Acquired in a trade from Cincinnati at the start of the season, he has played in 11 games, mostly in a special-teams role. He is likely looking at a new home in 2018.
LS L.P. Ladouceur -- He continues to roll along in the same job he has held since 2005. He would like to return to the Cowboys for another three years, and the Cowboys don’t have his replacement ready.
Restricted (2)
FB Keith Smith -- He converted from linebacker two years ago and has proven to be a solid lead blocker and pass-catcher. He also can play all the special-teams units.
DL David Irving -- He missed the first four games because of a suspension and will miss the last four with a concussion. In between, he produced seven sacks and is looking at a second-round tender.
Exclusive rights (2)
DT Brian Price -- Claimed off waivers from Green Bay at the start of the season, he played in eight games before suffering a knee injury that put him on injured reserve.
QB Zac Dysert -- He needed back surgery in training camp but lost snaps to Cooper Rush before getting hurt.