Dallas Cowboys Retain Key Offensive Lineman T.J. Bass

The Cowboys have re-signed the versatile offensive lineman to a second-round restricted free agent tender.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Dallas Cowboys have retained offensive lineman T.J. Bass, who has played in 48 games over the past three seasons with the team. Bass, who can play both guard and center, was a restricted free agent this offseason, and the Cowboys opted to match any potential offer from another team by signing him to a second-round tender.

Why it matters

Retaining Bass provides important depth and flexibility along the Cowboys' offensive line, which is a critical unit for the team’s success. His ability to play multiple positions helps the Cowboys maintain continuity and stability up front, which is especially important given the physical toll of the NFL season.

The details

In three seasons with the Cowboys, Bass has played in 48 games and made 10 starts. Last offseason, Cowboys offensive coordinator Klayton Adams praised Bass’ play at guard and said the team could benefit from him getting more experience at center as well. By signing Bass to the second-round tender, the Cowboys are keeping a versatile and experienced lineman who can provide valuable depth and competition during training camp and the regular season.

  • Bass has played for the Cowboys over the past three seasons (2023-2025).
  • The Cowboys re-signed Bass to a second-round restricted free agent tender in March 2026.

The players

T.J. Bass

An offensive lineman who has played both guard and center for the Dallas Cowboys over the past three seasons.

Klayton Adams

The offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, who praised Bass’ play at guard and said the team could benefit from him getting more experience at center as well.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The biggest thing is that he’s done a really nice job at guard. We’re all competing for jobs, and so we feel like we know that he gives us a pretty high level, or at least a very efficient player at guard, and where he lacks the most experience is at center.”

— Klayton Adams, Offensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys (DallasCowboys.com)

What’s next

The Cowboys could be looking to add more depth and competition along the offensive line as the offseason continues, but retaining Bass on the second-round tender ensures they keep an important piece of their offensive line rotation for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

By re-signing offensive lineman T.J. Bass to a second-round restricted free agent tender, the Dallas Cowboys are keeping a versatile and experienced player who can provide valuable depth and flexibility along their offensive line, a critical unit for the team’s success.