Mailbag: Tender offer on Bass vs. Hoffman?

(Editor's Note: Time to check the mail! The DallasCowboys.com staff writers answer your questions here in 'Mailbag' presented by Miller Lite.)

No tender on Brock Hoffman and a second-rounder on T.J. Bass despite Hoffman being almost essential at times during his stay here. Not that Bass wasn't OK, it just feels like Hoffman had more reps and versatility. Does placing a tender on Bass indicate the Cowboys are really more willing to let him walk and want to make sure they get something, or do they actually value him more? – Jeff Cedarfield/Canton, CT

Nick: I think that's exactly what it means. Nothing against Brock Hoffman, but it doesn't seem like there's more value for T.J. Bass and from the sound of things so far in free agency, the rest of the league is saying the same. Right now, it's been rather quiet on both fronts but like you said, the situations are now different. Bass was restricted with a tender and they let Hoffman go to unrestricted. So obviously, the Cowboys saw more value in Bass.

I think there have been some teams with interest for Bass, but maybe not for a second-round pick. I think it's worth pointing out that just because you put a tender for second-round, doesn't mean it's not negotiable. I think there's a chance the Cowboys get some offers for Bass, if they haven't already.

Now, for the Cowboys' standpoint, they covered their bases by signing Matt Hennessey, who is like both of them in that he's a veteran with experience who can play both center and guard. I think Hoffman could return to the Cowboys if they end up losing Bass to another team. Either way, there is value for versatile linemen with experience.

Patrik: There are two parts to this: my take and theirs. Mine says tender Brock Hoffman, and for all the reasons you said: more experience, more versatility, more proven when needed. I love the potential within T.J. Bass, I do, but I rank Hoffman slightly above him on my depth chart and that's why he'd get the tender over Bass, if I were making the call. But ... from the team's perspective, Bass is the one garnering more attention from other clubs, and has been for months now. That said, the Cowboys feel as if there's a greater chance of losing Bass in free agency, and want a chance at compensation if they can't keep him. It's really just that simple. They want both, but they rank Bass higher on the depth chart, and in league circles, than they do Hoffman. So there's the disconnect between them and me/us, to be honest.