Cowboys Sign Veteran DE Jonathan Bullard to 1-Year Deal

The 32-year-old defensive end joins Dallas after playing for the Saints last season.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:19pm

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A vibrant, abstract painting using bold brushstrokes and neon colors to depict the explosive power and movement of an NFL defensive lineman in action, conceptually representing the Cowboys' signing of Jonathan Bullard.The Cowboys' signing of veteran defensive end Jonathan Bullard injects new energy and experience into their defensive line.New Orleans Today

The Dallas Cowboys have signed veteran defensive end Jonathan Bullard to a one-year, $2.5 million contract, his agent confirmed on Saturday. Bullard, 32, played for the New Orleans Saints in 2025, recording 26 tackles in 15 games (6 starts). Over his 7-year NFL career, Bullard has tallied 6.5 sacks, 247 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 10 passes defended, and 2 forced fumbles in 131 games (59 starts) with several teams.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to bolster their defensive line after a disappointing 8-8 season in 2025. Bullard brings veteran experience and depth to a unit that struggled at times last year. His familiarity with Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, who coached him in Seattle in 2020, should also help with the transition.

The details

Bullard was drafted in the 3rd round by the Chicago Bears in 2016 and has played for 6 different NFL teams over his 7-year career. He spent the 2025 season with the New Orleans Saints, where he started 6 games and recorded 26 tackles. The Cowboys are hoping Bullard can provide a steady presence on the defensive line and help improve a unit that ranked 20th in the league in total defense last season.

  • Bullard's agent confirmed the 1-year, $2.5 million deal on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Jonathan Bullard

A 32-year-old veteran defensive end who has played for 6 different NFL teams over his 7-year career, most recently with the New Orleans Saints in 2025.

Brian Schottenheimer

The current offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, who previously coached Bullard when he played for the Seattle Seahawks in 2020.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add a player of Jonathan's caliber and experience to our defensive line. He's a proven veteran who will provide depth and leadership to that unit.”

— Jerry Jones, Dallas Cowboys Owner

What’s next

Bullard will join the Cowboys for the start of their offseason program in April as he looks to earn a starting role on the defensive line.

The takeaway

This signing represents a low-risk, high-upside move for the Cowboys as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. Bullard's veteran presence and familiarity with the coaching staff could provide a boost to Dallas' defensive front.