"Speculation has been running high that the Dallas Cowboys will release veteran RB Marion Barber once the new collective bargaining agreement is completed.

The reason the team could ultimately decide to jettison Barber, who turns 28 in June, is because of his high salary for this coming season.

Barber is listed with a $4.25 million base salary along with a $500,000 roster bonus. Various reports have this year's roster bonus due sometime in June. Sources confirmed to FOXSports.com that the date is actually June 3. If the new CBA isn't reached by June 3, they'll have until the new league year starts to make their decision, whenever that is.

Barber, who is signed through 2014, also has a $250,000 roster bonus due for the following season on June 3, 2012. He's scheduled to earn $5.75 million in base salary for 2012."