Dallas Cowboys Gear Up for Busy NFL Free Agency

Key dates and needs for the Cowboys as they look to rebuild their roster this offseason.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 4:39pm

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The Dallas Cowboys are expected to be more active in free agency this offseason as they look to improve their roster, especially on the defensive side of the ball. The team has already made some moves, including extending running back Javonte Williams and using the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens. Now, the focus turns to the start of free agency and the key dates the Cowboys need to know.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are coming off a disappointing season and have several holes to fill on their roster. How they approach free agency could go a long way in determining their success in 2026 and beyond. With the team signaling a willingness to 'bust the budget', there is optimism that Dallas will be more aggressive in adding talent this offseason.

The details

NFL free agency will officially kick off on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 4 p.m. ET. However, the legal tampering period will begin two days earlier on Monday, March 9 at 12 p.m. ET, allowing teams to negotiate with free agents before signings can become official. The Cowboys have several needs to address, including pass rusher, linebacker, cornerback and safety on defense. Offensively, they could look to add depth at offensive tackle.

  • NFL free agency legal tampering period begins on Monday, March 9, 2026 at 12 p.m. ET.
  • NFL free agency officially opens on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 4 p.m. ET.

The players

Javonte Williams

The Cowboys' starting running back, who was signed to a three-year contract extension this offseason.

George Pickens

The Cowboys' starting wide receiver, who was given the franchise tag this offseason.

T.J. Bass

A reserve offensive guard for the Cowboys, who the team plans to place a tender on as a restricted free agent.

Tyler Guyton

A starting offensive tackle for the Cowboys who the team could look to upgrade this offseason.

Terence Steele

A starting offensive tackle for the Cowboys who the team could look to upgrade this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“We must bust the budget this offseason to improve our roster.”

— Jerry Jones, Owner, Dallas Cowboys

What’s next

The Cowboys will need to restructure contracts to create salary cap space before the start of free agency. They will also need to decide which of their own free agents they want to re-sign before the market opens.

The takeaway

The Cowboys are signaling a more aggressive approach to free agency this offseason as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 campaign. How they address their defensive needs and add depth on the offensive line could go a long way in determining their success in 2026.