Cowboys Face Key Free Agency Decisions: Who Will Stay and Who Will Travel?

FRISCO, Texas – As the Dallas Cowboys approach the 2026 free agency period, they face a series of critical decisions regarding their roster. While the team demonstrated a commitment to retaining key players in 2025 by re-signing Osa Odighizuwa and Javonte Williams, the landscape for the upcoming year appears different, with fewer clear-cut priorities for retention.

Unrestricted Free Agents: A Difficult Outlook

The Cowboys have 13 players set to become unrestricted free agents and the likelihood of retaining a significant portion of this group appears slim.

• Hakeem Adeniji (OT): Having started only one game in 12 active appearances, Adeniji’s return is possible on a veteran salary benefit contract, but the Cowboys have depth at tackle with Nate Thomas and potentially Ajani Cornelius.
• Corey Ballentine (CB): Primarily a practice squad player with nickel and safety versatility, Ballentine’s return is doubtful, likely requiring a minimum-deal offer.
• Jack Sanborn (LB): Brought in due to his familiarity with a previous defensive scheme, Sanborn’s season was cut short by injury, and his performance was unremarkable. The Cowboys are expected to seek upgrades at linebacker.
• Miles Sanders (RB): Sanders’ season ended prematurely due to a knee injury, and the Cowboys are satisfied with the contributions of Malik Davis, Jaydon Blue, and Phil Mafah behind Javonte Williams, making his return unlikely.
• Jadeveon Clowney (DE): Despite leading the Cowboys in sacks last season, Clowney’s future is uncertain with the implementation of a new defensive scheme under DC Christian Parker. While a return isn’t entirely off the table, the Cowboys may prioritize other edge rushers.
• Jalen Tolbert (WR): After a promising 2024 season with seven touchdowns, Tolbert saw diminished opportunities with the emergence of Ryan Flournoy. A fresh start elsewhere may be beneficial for his career.
• Dante Fowler Jr. (DE): Despite recording 10.5 sacks with Washington in 2024, Fowler failed to replicate that success with the Cowboys, managing only three sacks and 15 tackles. His return is unlikely.
• Payton Turner (DE): A preseason rib injury sidelined Turner for the entire 2025 season. The Cowboys might consider a low-cost gamble, but a better fit elsewhere could be in his best interest.
• C.J. Goodwin (CB): A core special teamer since 2018, Goodwin’s future is uncertain as the Cowboys consider prioritizing younger players. A veteran salary benefit contract could be a possibility.
• Kenneth Murray Jr. (LB): Despite leading the team in tackles, the Cowboys do not appear interested in bringing back Murray, who struggled in the transition to middle linebacker.
• Donovan Wilson (S): The second-longest-tenured player drafted by the Cowboys (after Dak Prescott), Wilson’s performance declined due to injuries and the implementation of a new defensive scheme. A return is unlikely.
• Rob Jones (G): A neck injury sustained in training camp ended Jones’ season, and he will not be back with the team.
• Sam Williams (DE): Contract extension talks stalled last summer. He recorded one sack, six tackles for loss and 25 pressures. He will likely look for a chance elsewhere, but the Cowboys might consider bringing him back at the right price.

Restricted Free Agents: Aubrey and Bass Stand Out

Of the four restricted free agents, kicker Brandon Aubrey and guard T.J. Bass are the most likely to return.

• Brandon Aubrey (K): Contract extension talks stalled, but both sides agree he should be the highest-paid kicker. The Cowboys are expected to apply the second-round tender ($5.7 million).
• Brock Hoffman (OL): A valuable backup at center and guard, the right of first refusal tag ($3.5 million) or second-round tender might be too high for the Cowboys.
• T.J. Bass (OL): Having shown potential as a starter, Bass drew trade interest last season. The Cowboys are considering the second-round tender, but a trade could also be explored.
• Juanyeh Thomas (S): A core special teamer, Thomas’ return is uncertain due to the cost of the restricted free agent tender.

Exclusive Rights Free Agents: Depth Considerations

The Cowboys have also tendered offers to their two exclusive rights free agents, but their roster spots are not guaranteed.

• Josh Butler (CB): Recovering from a torn ACL, Butler could return to add depth at cornerback.
• Reddy Steward (CB): Claimed off waivers before the season, Steward became the team’s nickel corner and will compete for a roster spot.

The Cowboys face a pivotal free agency period, balancing the desire to retain their own players with the require to address positional needs and manage the salary cap. The decisions made in the coming weeks will significantly shape the team’s outlook for the 2026 season.