Cowboys Tender CB Reddy Steward as ERFA

Steward will return to Dallas secondary after strong 2025 season

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have tendered cornerback Reddy Steward as an exclusive rights free agent, keeping him under contract for the 2026 season. Steward, who was claimed off waivers by the Cowboys last August, appeared in every game in 2025 and recorded 63 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.

Why it matters

Retaining Steward provides depth and experience in the Cowboys' secondary, which will also feature DaRon Bland, Shavon Revel, Trikweze Bridges, and Caelen Carson in 2026.

The details

As an exclusive rights free agent, Steward cannot negotiate with other teams once the tender is in place. He will sign a one-year deal to remain with the Cowboys for the upcoming season.

  • Steward was claimed off waivers by the Cowboys in August 2025.
  • Steward appeared in all 17 games for the Cowboys in the 2025 season.

The players

Reddy Steward

A cornerback who spent time with the Bears and Vikings before being claimed by the Cowboys in 2025.

DaRon Bland

A Cowboys cornerback who is set to return in 2026.

Shavon Revel

A Cowboys cornerback who is set to return in 2026.

Trikweze Bridges

A Cowboys cornerback who is set to return in 2026.

Caelen Carson

A Cowboys cornerback who is set to return in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Steward can't negotiate with other clubs once the tender is in place, so he'll be back to compete for time in the Dallas secondary once he signs his deal for 2026.”

— Josh Alper, Author (nbcsports.com)

The takeaway

The Cowboys' decision to tender Reddy Steward as an exclusive rights free agent demonstrates their commitment to maintaining depth and experience in their secondary for the 2026 season.