The Dallas Cowboys have navigated a challenging 2025 offseason, marked by strategic acquisitions and significant departures. While they bolstered their roster with key free-agent signings, they also faced setbacks with players they were unable to secure, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the upcoming season.
Three Free Agents Who Could Improve the Cowboys’ Roster
- Jack Sanborn, Linebacker
The Cowboys addressed their defensive needs by signing linebacker Jack Sanborn. Known for his strong performance and connection with new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, Sanborn is expected to be a significant contributor. His familiarity with Eberflus’s defensive schemes should facilitate a smoother transition and bolster the Cowboys’ linebacker corps.
- Israel Mukuamu, Defensive Back
To strengthen their secondary, the Cowboys signed Israel Mukuamu, who is seen as a potential replacement for Jourdan Lewis. Mukuamu’s versatility and athleticism are expected to enhance the depth and flexibility of the Cowboys’ defensive backfield, addressing a critical area of need.
- Solomon Thomas, Defensive Lineman
In their “selectively aggressive” approach to free agency, the Cowboys secured defensive lineman Solomon Thomas. Thomas’s experience and versatility along the defensive line are anticipated to provide a boost to the Cowboys’ pass rush and run defense, compensating for some of the losses they’ve experienced.
Three Missed Free Agents Presenting Challenges
- Cooper Kupp, Wide Receiver
Quarterback Dak Prescott’s efforts to revamp the Cowboys’ offense faced a setback as top wide receiver target Cooper Kupp chose to sign with the Seattle Seahawks instead. Despite personal outreach from Prescott and teammate CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys couldn’t match Kupp’s financial expectations, leading to his three-year, $45 million deal with the Seahawks.
- DeMarcus Lawrence, Defensive End
The departure of veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence to the Seattle Seahawks is a significant loss for the Cowboys. Lawrence’s decision was influenced by his belief that he had a better chance to win a Super Bowl elsewhere, a sentiment that underscores challenges within the Cowboys’ organization. His exit leaves a void in the pass rush that the team will need to address.
- Jourdan Lewis, Cornerback
The Cowboys also lost cornerback Jourdan Lewis to the Jacksonville Jaguars during free agency. Lewis’s departure creates a gap in the secondary, challenging the Cowboys to find suitable replacements to maintain the effectiveness of their pass defense.