Cowboys Evaluating Cornerback Corey Ballentine's Future

Ballentine, a journeyman defensive back, spent 2025 on Dallas' practice squad.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys are assessing the future of cornerback Corey Ballentine, who joined the team's practice squad in 2025 after stints with several other NFL clubs. Ballentine, a sixth-round draft pick by the New York Giants in 2019, had a limited role with the Cowboys last season, recording only two combined tackles. The team must decide whether to re-sign the 30-year-old or look to add more proven options and higher-upside talent to their secondary this offseason.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' secondary struggled mightily in 2025, leading to changes on the defensive coaching staff. As the team evaluates its roster ahead of free agency, Ballentine's future in Dallas is uncertain, with the organization likely seeking more reliable and talented options at cornerback.

The details

Ballentine joined the Cowboys' practice squad in 2025 after being released by the New England Patriots the previous September. He spent most of the season developing with the practice squad and was elevated to the active roster, but failed to make an impact, finishing the year with just two combined tackles. As an NFL journeyman, the 30-year-old Ballentine faces an uphill battle to earn a spot on the Cowboys' 2026 roster, especially with the team expected to target cornerbacks in free agency and the draft to bolster their struggling secondary.

  • Ballentine was drafted by the New York Giants in the sixth round in 2019.
  • He spent time with the Giants, Jets, and Patriots before joining the Cowboys' practice squad in 2025.
  • Ballentine turned 30 years old in April 2026.

The players

Corey Ballentine

A 30-year-old cornerback who spent the 2025 season on the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad after stints with several other NFL teams.

Christian Parker

The Cowboys' new passing game coordinator, who will be part of a revamped defensive coaching staff in Dallas.

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What they’re saying

“If the Cowboys feel they'd like to continue developing Ballentine, they could give him the nod to return at some point this year, though he will be 30 years old in April something that would impact any decision made in the realm of continued development.”

— Patrik Walker, Author (statenews.net)

What’s next

The Cowboys will evaluate Ballentine's future as they look to overhaul their secondary this offseason through free agency and the draft.

The takeaway

Corey Ballentine's future with the Dallas Cowboys is uncertain as the team seeks to add more proven and talented options to their struggling secondary. As a 30-year-old journeyman, Ballentine faces an uphill battle to earn a roster spot, but the Cowboys could choose to continue developing him if they believe he can provide valuable depth at cornerback.