Cowboys Reunite with Safety P.J. Locke in Free Agency

Locke, a Texas native, joins Dallas on a one-year deal after starting for the Broncos in 2024.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to terms with free agent safety P.J. Locke on a one-year contract. Locke, a former undrafted free agent, spent the last few seasons as a starter and core special teamer for the Denver Broncos. The 29-year-old Texas native will reunite with Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who coached him in Denver.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to rebuild their secondary this offseason after losing starting safety Donovan Wilson in free agency. Locke's addition provides depth and experience at the position, and his familiarity with Parker's system should help him contribute immediately.

The details

Locke originally signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2019 before joining the Broncos' practice squad later that year. He emerged as a starter in Denver in 2024, recording 74 combined tackles and a forced fumble. The Cowboys are hoping Locke can fill the void left by Wilson's departure and provide a boost to their special teams units as well.

  • Locke agreed to terms with the Cowboys on March 11, 2026.
  • The new NFL league year begins at 4 p.m. ET on March 13, 2026, when Locke's contract will be finalized.

The players

P.J. Locke

A 29-year-old safety who spent the last few seasons as a starter and core special teamer for the Denver Broncos.

Christian Parker

The defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, who previously coached Locke in Denver.

Donovan Wilson

The Cowboys' former starting safety who remains unsigned in free agency.

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What they’re saying

“The Cowboys are hoping Locke fills the void in 2026, and he certainly has the potential to do so.”

— Patrik Walker, Reporter (statenews.net)

What’s next

The Cowboys will look to finalize Locke's contract when the new league year begins on March 13, 2026.

The takeaway

This signing reunites Locke with defensive coordinator Christian Parker and provides the Cowboys with a veteran safety option to help rebuild their secondary after the departure of Donovan Wilson.