Cowboys Bolster Defense in 2026 Free Agency

Dallas makes key signings to address glaring weaknesses on that side of the ball

Mar. 22, 2026 at 12:53pm

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The Dallas Cowboys have been busy in the 2026 NFL free agency period, focusing their efforts on rebuilding their defense after a disastrous 2025 season. Headlined by the trade for linebacker Rashan Gary and the signing of safety Jalen Thompson, the Cowboys have made a concerted effort to shore up their secondary and pass rush. They've also added depth pieces like safety PJ Locke and cornerback Cobie Durant, as well as re-signing linebacker Sam Williams. While they still have a hole at linebacker to address, the Cowboys' free agency moves have given them a fighting chance to return to relevance in the NFC East.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' defense was the primary culprit behind their disappointing 7-9-1 finish in 2025, as they finished dead last in the league in points allowed. With quarterback Dak Prescott still in his prime, the front office has made it a priority to rebuild the defense and give the offense a better chance to compete. These free agency signings are a clear attempt to address the team's biggest weaknesses and put them back in contention in the NFC East.

The details

The Cowboys' headline-grabbing move was the trade for former Packers linebacker Rashan Gary, who provides an immediate boost to the pass rush. They also signed safety Jalen Thompson to a three-year, $33 million deal, giving them a high-IQ field general in the secondary. Other notable signings include safety PJ Locke, cornerback Cobie Durant, and the re-signing of linebacker Sam Williams. The team also added quarterback Sam Howell as a veteran backup to Prescott.

  • The Cowboys' free agency moves came at the start of the 2026 legal tampering period.

The players

Jalen Thompson

A safety who comes over from the Arizona Cardinals on a three-year, $33 million deal. Thompson is a high-IQ field general who can thrive in the slot or deep center field, providing a much-needed counterpart to Malik Hooker in the Cowboys' secondary.

Rashan Gary

The former Packers linebacker was acquired via trade, providing a legitimate Pro Bowl-caliber threat opposite the developing Donovan Ezeiruaku on the Cowboys' defensive line. Gary's 46.5 career sacks will immediately upgrade the team's pass rush.

PJ Locke

A special teams ace and reliable spot-starter at safety, Locke adds a layer of grit to the Cowboys' secondary. His familiarity with defensive coordinator Christian Parker's system from their time in Denver is a valuable asset.

Cobie Durant

The signing of the cornerback is a classic low-risk, high-reward gamble for the Cowboys. Durant has shown flashes of being a ball-hawk, and Dallas is betting that a change of scenery will help him rediscover that opportunistic streak.

Sam Williams

The Cowboys re-signed the linebacker to a $2.5 million deal, providing continuity on the edge while they wait for their young draft picks to mature.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.