Eric Kendricks explains the main reason he turned down 49ers to sign with Dallas

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Ex-Vikings linebacker has accepted a smaller deal to play defense for his former defensive coordinator.

Going through another shy offseason, the Dallas Cowboys have made a targeted move by signing the external free-agent linebacker Eric Kendricks.

ESPN insider Todd Archer reported that he signed a one-year deal worth up to $3.5 million.

Before the 32-year-old player signed with the Cowboys, he had supposedly already accepted the terms proposed by the San Francisco 49ers, who were hoping he would fill Dre Greenlaw’s spot for a while.

According to Archer, Kendricks took less money just to be a part of Dallas’ roster. The truth is that there is something behind it – someone, actually.

Mike Zimmer, his former coach during seven of his eight seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, is the reason why the linebacker chose the America’s Team.

The defensive coordinatos apparently “wanted Kendricks to help run his defense” and the veteran also “preferred to play in Dallas.”

After the LB Leighton Vander Esch was cut due to a failed physical designation, the Cowboys needed a quick replacement for him.

Kendricks’ decision has a first and last name

As confusing as Kendricks’ last-minute decision may have seemed, after making it official that he was going to Dallas, he explained why he decided to join his ex-DC:

“(The 49ers) are an excellent organization and wonderful program they have there. Ultimately, I wanted the opportunity to play for Mike and bet on myself. Especially at this point in my career, I have a lot left to prove.”

“I feel great and I’m moving great. To be able to play for Mike with this defense, and the guys we have on this defense, it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass. I’m very happy with this decision.”

His admiration for Zimmer and everything he learned from the coach were bigger than his desire to play for the current NFL runners-up.

“I felt like it was a really hard decision.”

“The level of detail and the amount of football that I learned with Zimm was tremendous.”

“I feel like I’ll never take that for granted and that’s why I’m back with him right now. Just being at the facility today, it’s all becoming real. I’m very excited to play, it’s obviously the sport I grew up playing. Love playing middle linebacker. I’m happy I’m able to be in Coach ZImm’s system again. It felt right.”

Kendricks was drafted as the 45th overall pick in 2015. In nine seasons, he played 132 games, tallied 18.5 tackles and had five forced fumbles. If he can maintain his consistency, he could be an important part of the Cowboys’ defense.