Cowboys Bolster Defense, Add QB Depth in Free Agency

Dallas makes key moves to address needs on both sides of the ball

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have been active in the early stages of the 2026 NFL free agency period, making significant moves to improve their roster on both offense and defense. The team has added depth at quarterback, reinforced the defensive line, and strengthened the secondary, signaling a proactive approach to the offseason.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' free agency strategy demonstrates a commitment to addressing key needs and building a well-rounded roster that can compete in the NFC East and beyond. These moves could have major implications for the team's success in the upcoming season.

The details

On offense, the Cowboys have agreed to terms with former Eagles and Commanders quarterback Sam Howell on a one-year deal, creating a quarterback competition behind starter Dak Prescott. Defensively, the team has secured a one-year deal with defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia, a former fifth-round pick of the Chargers, to bolster the interior line. They've also restructured Kenny Clark's contract to free up cap space for potential future additions.

  • The Cowboys signed Sam Howell to a one-year deal on March 10, 2026.
  • The team agreed to terms with Otito Ogbonnia on a one-year contract on March 9, 2026.
  • The Cowboys restructured Kenny Clark's contract on March 8, 2026.

The players

Sam Howell

A former fifth-round pick of the Washington Commanders, Howell will compete for the backup quarterback role behind Dak Prescott.

Otito Ogbonnia

A defensive tackle who was previously a fifth-round pick of the Los Angeles Chargers, Ogbonnia is expected to provide an immediate upgrade to the Cowboys' defensive line.

Kenny Clark

A veteran defensive tackle, Clark had his contract restructured to free up cap space for the Cowboys.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build a well-rounded roster that can compete at the highest level. These early free agency moves are just the start of our offseason strategy.”

— Jerry Jones, Owner, Dallas Cowboys (Cowboys.com)

“Adding a veteran presence like Sam Howell gives us valuable insurance at the quarterback position and allows us to evaluate long-term options.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach, Dallas Cowboys (ESPN)

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue to monitor the free agent market and explore potential trades as they look to further strengthen their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' proactive approach to free agency demonstrates a commitment to building a well-rounded team that can compete in the NFC East and beyond. These early moves address key needs on both offense and defense, setting the stage for a potentially successful 2026 campaign.