Internal evaluations following the conclusion of the 2025 season have crystallized the Dallas Cowboys' offseason priorities, with team sources on January 28 and 29 pinpointing the safety position and the pass rush as the two most critical areas requiring upgrade. This focus emerges from a defensive performance that was often a liability, contributing to a disappointing 7-9-1 record and a last-place finish in the NFC East. The impending free agency of several key contributors has accelerated the need for strategic planning.
At safety, the situation is particularly fluid. Starters Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker are both scheduled to become unrestricted free agents in March. Their potential departure would leave a significant void in the defensive backfield. Depth is also a concern, with Markquese Bell ending the season listed as questionable and Juanyeh Thomas ruled out. This creates a scenario where the Cowboys may need to acquire two starting-caliber safeties. Options include negotiating new contracts with Wilson and/or Hooker, diving into the veteran free agent market, or using a high draft pick on the position. The team's activity at the 2026 Senior Bowl, where they are closely evaluating prospects, suggests the draft is a strong possibility.
Regarding the pass rush, the directive from the front office is clear: build around All-Pro Micah Parsons and star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. However, support on the edge is uncertain. Veteran defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, who provided valuable snaps in 2025, is a free agent. Fellow defensive end Sam Williams is also set to hit the open market. This could leave Parsons and 2025 contributor Marshawn Kneeland as the only established edge rushers under contract. The team must decide whether to invest significant capital in re-signing Clowney or Williams, pursue other free agents, or again look to the draft. An NFL.com mock draft from January 28 projected the Cowboys to select a defensive lineman with their first-round pick, aligning perfectly with this stated need. The health of the unit is also in focus, as the team hopes for a full recovery for DaRon Bland, whose coverage skills indirectly aid the pass rush.