Cowboys Sign $11.4M DE to Fill Trade Void

Dallas adds veteran pass rusher to bolster defensive line depth.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 7:39pm

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The Dallas Cowboys have signed defensive end Jonathan Bullard to an $11.4 million contract, filling a void left by the recent trade of Oza Odighizuwa to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite having depth on the defensive front with players like Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, and Tyrus Wheat, the Cowboys sought to add more veteran experience to their pass rush rotation.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' defensive line was a strength last season, but the loss of Odighizuwa, a key rotational player, created a need that the team has now addressed with the addition of Bullard. This move should help maintain the team's defensive line depth and pass rushing capabilities as they aim to compete in the NFC East.

The details

Bullard, a 10-year NFL veteran, has spent time with the Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, and Jacksonville Jaguars. He will provide experienced depth behind the Cowboys' starting defensive linemen and help spell their starters to keep the unit fresh throughout games.

  • The Cowboys signed Bullard on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Jonathan Bullard

A 10-year NFL veteran defensive end who has played for the Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

Oza Odighizuwa

A defensive lineman who was recently traded by the Cowboys to the San Francisco 49ers.

Kenny Clark

A starting defensive lineman for the Cowboys.

Quinnen Williams

A starting defensive lineman for the Cowboys.

Tyrus Wheat

A starting defensive lineman for the Cowboys.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build depth on the defensive line to compete in this division. Jonathan brings valuable experience and will help keep our starters fresh throughout the season.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach, Dallas Cowboys

What’s next

The Cowboys will look to integrate Bullard into their defensive line rotation during the upcoming offseason program and training camp.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' addition of veteran defensive end Jonathan Bullard demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a strong defensive front, even after the loss of a key rotational player. This move should help the team's pass rush and overall defensive line depth as they prepare for the 2026 season.