In a notable shift during the NFL free agency period, the Dallas Cowboys have made significant roster adjustments. They have acquired defensive edge rusher Rashan Gary through a trade, bolstered their defensive line by signing nose tackle Otito Ogbonnia, and enhanced their secondary with the arrivals of Jalen Thompson, Cobie Durant, and P.J. Locke. Additionally, the team bid farewell to one of its fan favorites, Osa Odighizuwa, who was sent to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a third-round draft pick.
With these changes implemented, the Cowboys” depth chart now looks as follows:
Quarterback: Dak Prescott, Joe Milton III, Sam Howell
Running Back: Javonte Williams, Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue, Phil Mafah, Israel Abanikanda
Fullback: Hunter Luepke
Wide Receiver: CeeDee Lamb, Parris Campbell, Traeshon Holden
Wide Receiver: George Pickens, Jonathan Mingo
Wide Receiver: Ryan Flournoy, KaVontae Turpin
Tight End: Jake Ferguson, Luke Schoonmaker, Brevyn Spann-Ford, Princeton Fant
Left Tackle: Tyler Guyton, Nate Thomas
Left Guard: Tyler Smith, T.J. Bass, Nick Leverett
Center: Cooper Beebe, Matt Hennessey
Right Guard: Tyler Booker, Trevor Keegan
Right Tackle: Terence Steele, Ajani Cornelius, Marcellus Johnson
All eleven starters from the previous season will return, with the Cowboys re-signing Javonte Williams and placing the franchise tag on George Pickens. There may still be a need for competition at the offensive tackle spot, but the offense demonstrated its explosive potential even amidst uncertainties. A quarterback competition is expected, with Joe Milton III looking to secure his position against Sam Howell. Furthermore, the running back unit may see an additional player added to support Williams.
Defensive Line:
Defensive Tackle: Quinnen Williams, Otito Ogbonnia, Adedayo Odeleye
Nose Tackle: Kenny Clark, Jay Toia
Linebackers:
Outside Linebacker: Rashan Gary, James Houston, Isaiah Land
Inside Linebacker: DeMarvion Overshown, Shemar James, Justin Barron
Outside Linebacker: Donovan Ezeiruaku, Sam Williams, Marist Liufau, Tyrus Wheat
Secondary:
Cornerback: DaRon Bland, Caelen Carson, Josh Butler
Safety: Jalen Thompson, Markquese Bell, Julius Wood
Safety: Malik Hooker, P.J. Locke, Alijah Clark
Cornerback: Cobie Durant, Shavon Revel Jr., Trikweze Bridges
Nickel: Reddy Steward, Zion Childress
New defensive coordinator Christian Parker is expected to implement significant changes, which partly explains the departure of Odighizuwa. Parker aims to construct a formidable defensive front, potentially leading to an enhanced pass rush in the upcoming season, spearheaded by Gary. While Thompson is listed as a safety, he may also adapt to the nickel role in specific defensive packages, with Locke shifting to safety duties. The secondary appears to be notably stronger on paper, but the Cowboys will need to address their inside linebacker situation.
Special Teams:
Kicker: Brandon Aubrey
Punter: Bryan Anger
Long Snapper: Trent Sieg
Kick Returner: KaVontae Turpin, Jaydon Blue
Punt Returner: KaVontae Turpin
The Cowboys continue to excel in special teams, led by Aubrey, who was given a second-round tender this offseason. This secures his spot for at least another year, although there are hopes for a long-term contract. Aubrey is well aware of his value and the potential for a record-setting compensation. With a reliable punter in Anger and Turpin remaining one of the NFL”s most dangerous return specialists, the special teams unit holds strong promise.
