Former Vikings Defender Joins Cowboys

Dallas adds veteran run-stopping DT Jonathan Bullard to bolster defensive line

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:55pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a defensive line formation, with players rendered as fragmented geometric shapes in muted earth tones, conveying the power and complexity of the Cowboys' defensive front.The Cowboys' revamped defensive tackle group, led by stars Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark, will look to anchor the interior line and improve the team's run defense.Oakley Today

The Dallas Cowboys have signed former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard to a one-year deal, adding depth and experience to their defensive line. Bullard, a steady run-stopper, will reunite with his former Vikings defensive line coach Marcus Dixon in Dallas.

Why it matters

The Cowboys have made a concerted effort to improve their defensive tackle group this offseason, adding Bullard as the third new addition to the interior defensive line. Bullard's arrival provides valuable depth and run-defending ability to a unit that will be anchored by stars Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark.

The details

Bullard, a seven-year NFL veteran, started 17 games for the Vikings in 2024, recording 41 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 3 pass breakups and 1 sack. He'll now join a Cowboys defensive tackle room that also includes Otito Ogbonnia, Jay Toia and Adedayo Odeleye. While not a dominant pass rusher, Bullard is known for his ability to hold his ground and disrupt running lanes.

  • Bullard agreed to terms with the Cowboys on a one-year deal on March 30, 2026.

The players

Jonathan Bullard

A 33-year-old defensive tackle who spent the last three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, establishing himself as a consistent run-stopping presence on the interior defensive line.

Quinnen Williams

The Cowboys' star defensive tackle who will anchor the interior of their defensive line.

Kenny Clark

Another top defensive tackle who will team up with Williams to form a formidable duo in the middle of the Cowboys' defensive front.

Marcus Dixon

The Cowboys' defensive line coach who previously worked with Bullard during his time with the Vikings.

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What they’re saying

“On Saturday, the Cowboys made a free agency signing to help the cause. And it could be a significant one for a defense that needs to do a better job stopping the run. At 290 pounds, Bullard isn't a true nose tackle, lining up over the B-gap the majority of the time. However, he does specialize as a run defender.”

— Mauricio Rodriguez, A to Z Sports

What’s next

The Cowboys will look to further bolster their defensive line through the upcoming NFL Draft, particularly on the edge, as they currently have Rashan Gary and Donovan Ezeiruaku penciled in as starters at defensive end.

The takeaway

The addition of Jonathan Bullard provides the Cowboys with a veteran presence and run-stopping ability to complement their star defensive tackles Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark. While not a dominant pass rusher, Bullard's steady play against the run should help improve a Dallas defense that struggled at times to stop the ground game in 2025.