The Facts: The Cowboys have also decided to part ways with Austin and will designate him as a post-June 1 cut, according to a source. Releasing Austin saves the Cowboys $5.5 million against the cap, but they don’t get the credit on those savings until after June 1.

Diehards Line: A year after Austin’s breakout 2009 season (81 catches for 1,320 yards and 11 touchdowns), the Cowboys signed him to a six-year, $54 million contract extension. Austin, who turns 30 in June, hasn’t lived up to his big payday. He’s had a hard time staying on the field, struggling with several hamstring injuries. He’s coming off his worst season with the Cowboys. Austin had only 24 catches for 244 yards and no touchdowns in 11 games in 2013 (only eight starts). As Morning News staffer Brandon George notes, the Cowboys were pleased with the production and development of rookie receiver Terrance Williams last season (44-736, 5 TDs). With Austin cut, Williams will likely have the most to gain. The No. 3 receiver will likely move up to full-time starter.