Cowboys Plan Parting Ways With QB, Bolster Defense

The Cowboys are widely projected to prioritize defense in 2026, potentially at the expense of adding a third quarterback behind Dak Prescott and Sam Howell, with one projection suggesting Joe Milton III could be kept on the practice squad to preserve defensive depth. Liufau’s move from linebacker to edge rusher is viewed as a high-risk, low-reward scenario, as he faces an uphill battle to secure a roster spot amid stronger, established depth at the position. The loss of Jordyn Brooks to a three-year extension with the Dolphins narrows trade options for upgrading linebacker, leaving veteran targets like Bobby Wagner or Bobby Okereke as more likely avenues to bolster the unit. Analysts also highlight the Cowboys’ run defense as a concrete area for improvement, with veteran Jonathan Bullard cited as a potentially underrated addition to shore up the front seven. In ongoing discussions about free agency and the 53-man roster, attention remains on whether the team will pursue a high-impact linebacker such as Wagner or focus on stabilizing the current corps with signings that fit the system under coordinator Christian Parker. The overarching theme across these reports is a concerted emphasis on strengthening run defense and linebacking depth to complement Prescott’s offense as Dallas contends for a deeper playoff run.