The San Francisco 49ers executed a strategic move during Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, trading linebacker Dee Winters to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for the No. 152 overall pick. This deal, confirmed by official announcements from the 49ers and multiple NFL sources on April 24, 2026, provides the 49ers with additional flexibility as they head into Day 3 of the draft.
Trade Details and Context
The trade between the 49ers and Cowboys included San Francisco sending Dee Winters--a 2023 sixth-round pick from TCU--to Dallas. In return, the 49ers received Dallas' fifth-round selection, No. 152 overall, which will be used on Day 3 of the NFL Draft commencing April 25.
For Dallas, adding Winters offers a young, athletic linebacker capable of contributing on special teams while competing for defensive snaps in a linebacker room undergoing transition. Winters appeared in 22 games over two seasons with San Francisco, primarily contributing on special teams, but showcasing the athleticism and sideline-to-sideline speed that made him a promising college prospect.
Rationale Behind the 49ers' Move
Multiple factors influenced the 49ers' decision to part ways with Winters. Offseason acquisitions and draft additions strengthened the linebacker depth chart, reducing Winters' likelihood of earning a spot on the 53-man roster. San Francisco's front office, led by General Manager John Lynch, has emphasized maximizing assets and accumulating draft capital, particularly in mid to late rounds where the team has historically identified valuable contributors.
This additional pick expands San Francisco's arsenal on Day 3, allowing them to either select a player with late-round upside or package picks to move up for targeted prospects. Such maneuverability aligns with the team's approach to draft management, underscoring a commitment to build for both immediate and long-term success.
Dee Winters' Tenure with the 49ers
Selected in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Texas Christian University, Winters entered the NFL as an athletic, raw linebacker with promising traits but requiring development. Over two seasons with the 49ers, Winters' contributions were largely confined to special teams, recording 14 tackles with no starts, though he displayed potential for growth when healthy.
The crowded linebacker room in 2026, stocked with veterans and younger talent alike, limited his pathway to playing time on defense, making him an expendable asset in the eyes of the 49ers' management.
Impact on the 49ers' Linebacker Corps
The trade clears room in a linebacker group anchored by Fred Warner, a cornerstone of San Francisco's defense. Alongside Warner, the team boasts depth fortified through offseason moves and the 2026 draft's early selections. While the 49ers remain open to drafting additional linebackers on Day 3, the emphasis is currently weighted toward other positional needs.
Draft Strategy and Outlook
Earlier on Day 2, the 49ers made their first selection of the 2026 draft, choosing wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling at No. 33 overall. Stribling, recognized for his size, reliable hands, and precise route-running, addresses a pressing need for a physically imposing pass-catcher in the intermediate and red-zone areas.
With the newly acquired 152nd overall pick, San Francisco now holds seven selections on Day 3, enhancing their capacity to build depth at critical spots like offensive line, secondary, and pass rush. This added draft capital allows the 49ers to be aggressive or flexible in maneuvering through the later rounds.
What This Means for the Cowboys
Dallas adds a promising linebacker in Dee Winters who fits their defensive scheme emphasizing speed and athleticism. The Cowboys view the deal as a low-risk, high-reward initiative to bolster special teams and add depth behind their evolving linebacker rotation.
Conclusion
The 49ers' trade of Dee Winters represents a calculated, low-risk decision to optimize roster composition and increase draft capital. By exchanging a developmental linebacker unlikely to make the final roster for a valuable fifth-round pick, the franchise exemplifies strategic asset management.
As Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, San Francisco is well positioned to leverage its seven picks to address roster needs and add promising talent. Combining shrewd trades with targeted drafting, the 49ers continue to build a competitive roster under General Manager John Lynch and Head Coach Kyle Shanahan.
The trade and draft moves mark a solid start to the 49ers' offseason, reinforcing their commitment to smart team-building and sustained success in the coming seasons.
