Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Addresses Roster Moves

Jones discusses draft plans, free agent signings, and potential Clowney return

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:29pm

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At the NFL Annual League Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones spoke to reporters about the team's offseason plans, including the draft, free agent signings, and the possibility of re-signing veteran defensive end Jadeveon Clowney.

Why it matters

As one of the most influential owners in the NFL, Jerry Jones' comments provide insight into the Cowboys' strategy as they look to improve their roster and contend for a Super Bowl in the upcoming season.

The details

Jones touched on the team's interest in wide receiver prospect Jaxon Smith-Njigba from Ohio State, as well as their plans to re-sign defensive end Aubrey Pleasant. He also left the door open for a potential return of veteran pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney, who played for the Cowboys in 2025 before becoming a free agent.

  • The comments were made on April 1, 2026 at the NFL Annual League Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

Jerry Jones

The owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys NFL franchise.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

A wide receiver prospect from Ohio State University who the Cowboys are reportedly interested in drafting.

Aubrey Pleasant

A defensive end who played for the Cowboys in 2025 and is a free agent that the team hopes to re-sign.

Jadeveon Clowney

A veteran defensive end who played for the Cowboys in 2025 and is a free agent that the team is considering bringing back.

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What they’re saying

“Jaxon is a player we've got our eye on. He's a dynamic talent and would be a great fit for our offense.”

— Jerry Jones, Cowboys Owner

“Aubrey is a priority for us in free agency. He's been a valuable part of our defensive line and we want to keep him in Dallas.”

— Jerry Jones, Cowboys Owner

“Clowney is someone we've had discussions with. He's a proven pass rusher and we're exploring the possibility of bringing him back.”

— Jerry Jones, Cowboys Owner

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue their preparations for the upcoming NFL Draft, where they will look to add talent to their roster. They will also work to finalize contract negotiations with Aubrey Pleasant and potentially Jadeveon Clowney in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Jerry Jones' comments provide insight into the Cowboys' offseason strategy as they look to build a roster capable of competing for a Super Bowl championship. The team's interest in Jaxon Smith-Njigba, plans to re-sign Aubrey Pleasant, and potential return of Jadeveon Clowney all signal the team's desire to improve their roster through the draft and free agency.