[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Friday, March 14, 1997

Boniol becomes an Eagle after Cowboys fail to match offer

By DENNE H. FREEMAN AP Sports Writer

IRVING, Texas (AP) - Placekicker Chris Boniol, the offensive highlight for the Dallas Cowboys last season, joined punter John Jett as an off-season, free agent defection Friday, taking a $2.45 million offer from the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Cowboys, who have salary cap problems, failed to match the four-year offer which gives Boniol $800,00 in 1997, including a $150,000 bonus. Boniol receives salaries of $500,000 in 1998 and 1999, and $650,000 in 2000.

Dallas had made a $361,000 offer so it would have the right to match any offers.

"Chris did a great job for us," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said in a statement Friday announcing the team's decision. "He was a big part of our success over the past three seasons, and we all wish him the best."

Dallas coach Barry Switzer said he hated to lose Boniol because "he's a great kid and a great pressure kicker but that's more than we can afford to pay."

Boniol made 32 of 36 field goals last year including his last 27 in a row. He made an NFL record-tying seven field goals in a win over the Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers.

Boniol also made the game-winning 29-yard field goal in overtime against San Francisco. Two years ago he made a dramatic 35-yard field goal as time expired to lead Dallas over the New York Giants.

Boniol made 81 of 93 field goals in his three-year career with the Cowboys, which he joined as a rookie free agent from Louisiana Tech in 1994.

He was the sixth placekicker for the Cowboys since Jones purchased the team in 1989.

The Cowboys lost Jett to the Detroit Lions. Jett also was Boniol's holder.

Dallas was about $900,000 under the $41.45 million salary cap and hope to sign fullback Daryl Johnston, who is a free agent.

Boniol said he understood his contract was just business.

"I hoped I could stay in Dallas but once I got the Philadelphia offer I figured things wouldn't work out," Boniol said. "It's just a business situation. I had to take the best offer. I'll miss Dallas."

Boniol also might miss Texas Stadium which provides more ideal conditions for a placekicker than windy and cold Veterans Stadium.