This could be the end of an era in Dallas. With Mike McCarthy and his coaching staff on being a lame ducka 3-6 record that’s about to turn into 3-8 means the Cowboys will likely miss the playoffs. And if that’s the case, when the final whistle blows in Week 18, it could signal the final games played by teammates who have spent their entire 11-year careers with a star on their helmet.

The two top picks in the 2014 draft, OG Zack Martin and DE DeMarcus Lawrence are both set to hit free agency next spring, and it’s quite possible they won’t return to Team USA. If Lawrence walks, he is expected to draw a lot of interest as he has consistently been extremely productive this season when not injured while coming off back-to-back Pro Bowls.

There have been no apparent slip-ups in his play, so he could command a big payday as a mercenary, and that could be the case for his former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who is now Washington’s head coach.

Bleacher Report’s Kevin Knox predicted this would be one of two high-potential landing spots for Lawrence, along with the Detroit Lions.

Lawrence was simply superb this season before the injury. He had 14 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, 10 Quarterback pressures and a forced fumble in four games. Lawrence should appeal to teams looking for pass help or improved run defense, although he is better suited to those using a four-man front.

Lawrence would find a terrific fit with the Lions, who should have star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson back by spring. Hutchinson will remain Detroit’s primary passer, but the Lions desperately need a high-end complement.

Washington would also serve as a sensible landing spot — and not entirely because former Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is now the head coach. Quinn’s presence would undoubtedly be part of the equation, but the Commanders would also potentially have to lose Dante Fowler Jr. and Clelin Ferrell in 2025 free agency.

Quinn’s Commanders have been a surprise this season thanks to rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, but the defense has been getting back into shape. Their pass rush is anchored by two of Lawrence’s understudies in recent years at Texas, Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler. Fowler is having a career year, so