Dallas Cowboys Make Key Moves in Free Agency
The Dallas Cowboys have made significant moves in free agency, acquiring edge rusher Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers for a late-round pick in 2027 and signing safety Jalen Thompson to a three-year deal worth a maximum of $33 million. These transactions highlight the Cowboys’ commitment to strengthening their roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Thompson’s contract, which spans three years, is expected to bolster the Cowboys’ secondary, while Gary’s addition is aimed at enhancing their pass rush capabilities. The Cowboys have been historically active in free agency, with significant signings dating back to 2012, and this year appears no different as they look to build a competitive team.
In addition to these acquisitions, the Cowboys have re-signed Sam Williams on a one-year, $3 million deal, ensuring that they retain key players as they navigate the offseason. Furthermore, the team restructured Terence Steele‘s deal, creating approximately $13 million in salary cap space, which could be pivotal for future signings or draft considerations.
As part of their strategy, the Cowboys also restructured Malik Hooker‘s contract, further optimizing their salary cap situation. The restructuring of Steele’s deal, which includes $22 million in fully guaranteed money, is seen as a proactive measure to maintain flexibility in their roster management.
Despite these moves, the Cowboys missed out on several top edge rushers in free agency, with reports indicating they were not expected to pursue Trey Hendrickson due to his high contract demands. This has led to discussions among analysts about the Cowboys potentially needing to explore tier 2 or 3 options for depth pieces and focusing on the upcoming draft.
Additionally, the Cowboys have tendered several restricted free agents, including Brandon Aubrey and T.J. Bass, at the second-round level, indicating their intent to retain promising talent. Josh Butler also signed a separate deal that includes an injury split, further adding to the team’s roster depth.
While the Cowboys have made strides in free agency, they have also placed the franchise tag on George Pickens at a value of $27.3 million for 2026, which underscores their commitment to securing key players for the future. However, the exact impact of these acquisitions on the upcoming season remains unclear, and details regarding the Cowboys’ future moves in free agency are still unconfirmed.
As the offseason progresses, observers are keen to see how the Cowboys will navigate the remaining free agency period and whether they will pursue additional players or focus their efforts on the draft. The combination of recent acquisitions and strategic contract restructures positions the Cowboys to potentially enhance their competitiveness in the league.
