3 Sneaky Good NFL Free Agents Cowboys Must Sign in 2026 Offseason

The Dallas Cowboys missed the playoffs, but here are three under-the-radar free agents they should target to improve their defense.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys are looking to bounce back from a 7-9-1 season in 2026. To bolster their defense, the team should target free agent linebacker Devin Bush, edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, and safety Reed Blankenship. Bush is coming off a breakout year with the Browns, Hendrickson provides much-needed pass rushing ability, and Blankenship has developed into a ball-hawking defensive back with ties to the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' defense struggled mightily in 2025, so adding proven playmakers on that side of the ball is crucial if they want to compete for a Super Bowl in the next couple of years while quarterback Dak Prescott is still in his prime.

The details

Linebacker Devin Bush had a career year with the Browns in 2025, recording 3 interceptions, 125 tackles, and 2 sacks. He could provide a major boost to the Cowboys' defense, though his high price tag may be an obstacle. Edge rusher Trey Hendrickson is another potential target, as he had 35 sacks in 2023-24 before a down year in 2025. At 31 years old, he may come at a discount, which could make him an attractive option for the win-now Cowboys. Finally, safety Reed Blankenship has started 46 games for the Eagles over the past 3 seasons and has 9 career interceptions. He has a connection to the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator, which could give Dallas an advantage in signing him.

  • The Cowboys missed the playoffs with a 7-9-1 record in the 2025 season.

The players

Devin Bush

A seven-year veteran linebacker who had a breakout season with the Browns in 2025, recording 3 interceptions, 125 tackles, and 2 sacks.

Trey Hendrickson

A 31-year-old edge rusher who had 35 sacks in 2023-24 before a down year in 2025, making him a potential bargain target for the win-now Cowboys.

Reed Blankenship

A four-year veteran safety who has started 46 games for the Eagles over the past 3 seasons, recording 9 career interceptions. He has a connection to the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator.

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What they’re saying

“Of course, losing is not fun in this league. We have a lot of football left. And we've just got to keep playing ball.”

— Devin Bush (Beacon Journal)

“He [Parker] is obviously well known now. He helped build our room, especially. And what he brings to the table coaching-wise and just as a person. I mean, he's got it all. So, he's going to do great regardless of where he's at. But nah, he's going to do great for sure.”

— Reed Blankenship (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Cowboys will need to determine if they can afford the contract demands of Devin Bush, as his breakout season may have priced him out of their range. They'll also have to weigh the risk of signing the 31-year-old Trey Hendrickson, though his potential upside could make him worth the gamble.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' defense was a major weakness in 2025, so upgrading that unit through free agency will be crucial if they want to compete for a Super Bowl in the next couple of seasons. Signing players like Devin Bush, Trey Hendrickson, and Reed Blankenship could provide the defensive boost the team needs to get back to the playoffs.