Cowboys Struggle to Improve Roster in Offseason

Early reviews of Dallas' free agency moves have been critical, with opponents questioning the team's ability to get significantly better.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 12:51am

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The Dallas Cowboys have made some defensive improvements this offseason, including signing Rashan Gary, Jalen Thompson, and Cobie Durant. However, they still have major holes to fill, especially at middle linebacker and in the secondary. Cowboys fans and rival front offices have expressed disappointment with the team's offseason moves so far, feeling they have not done enough to significantly upgrade the roster and avoid another disappointing season.

Why it matters

The Cowboys had one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season, giving up a league-high 511 points. Their inability to make major improvements in free agency has raised concerns about their ability to compete in the NFC East and return to the playoffs.

The details

The Cowboys made some notable defensive additions, including edge rusher Rashan Gary, safety Jalen Thompson, and cornerback Cobie Durant. However, they failed to address their biggest need at middle linebacker and still have holes in the secondary. Rival executives criticized the team's moves, with one saying the Cowboys 'got Rashan Gary, who Green Bay was not fired up about' and another calling them a 'spin-your-wheels type team that never really gets a lot better'.

  • The Cowboys' offseason moves have taken place over the past several weeks.
  • The team is heading into the 2026 NFL Draft still needing to fill key roster holes.

The players

Rashan Gary

An edge rusher the Cowboys acquired in a trade with the Green Bay Packers.

Jalen Thompson

A safety the Cowboys signed in free agency.

Cobie Durant

A cornerback the Cowboys added in free agency.

Jerry Jones

The owner of the Dallas Cowboys, who had promised to 'bust the budget' this offseason.

Christian Parker

The Cowboys' new defensive coordinator.

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What’s next

The Cowboys will look to address their remaining roster needs through the 2026 NFL Draft, where they will have the opportunity to add impact players at key positions.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' offseason moves have not lived up to the high expectations set by owner Jerry Jones, leaving the team with several glaring holes to fill on defense. This raises concerns about their ability to significantly improve and compete in the NFC East after a disappointing 2025 season.