Tight end James Hanna went to San Diego to visit with the Chargers on Friday, which might have been just the impetus that he and the Cowboys needed to extend their working relationship.
According to multiple reports, Hanna has agreed to a three-year deal with the team. It has a total value of $8.25 million with $3.25 million in guaranteed money.
The move brings back a player who served as a blocking complement to Jason Witten at tight end over the last four seasons. Hanna has started 29 games over that period and has 33 catches for 286 yards in his infrequent appearances as a target in the passing game.
The Cowboys now have Witten, Hanna, Gavin Escobar and Geoff Swaim under contract at tight end. Hanna also joins linebacker Rolando McClain, tackle Charles Brown, linebacker Kyle Wilber and cornerback Josh Thomas as free agents returning to Dallas for the 2016 season.