From the hiring of Christian Parker to using the franchise tag on George Pickens and everything in between, the Dallas Cowboys have made several important moves so far in the offseason in the hopes of becoming a much-improved team for the upcoming 2026 NFL season. Some of these moves will be more impactful than others and that there could even be more additions made before the season gets underway. Below is how we rank the Cowboys Top 10 offseason moves prior to the start of training camp.
#10 – Malachi Lawrence
Re-signing
T.J. Bass was in contention for the final spot on this list, but trading down in the first-round and still landing their targeted player (Malachi Lawrence) ended up getting the final nod here. Lawrence’s addition is expected to upgrade Dallas’ pass rush this year and be a key rotational piece for them as a rookie. He’ll be a key component to the new-look 3-4 defense.
#9 – Cobie Durant
Cobie Durant could be this year’s version of Javonte Williams, Dallas’ underrated yet biggest offseason free agent addition. He’s been one of their best corners in organized team activities (OTAs) and should carry that over into training camp. If he continues to play like he has and turns into a full-time starter in training camp, the move could end up ranking much higher.
#8 – Dee Winters (trade)
After striking out on their targeted free agent linebackers, the Cowboys pulled the trigger to land LB Dee Winters via trade with the San Francisco 49ers for a fifth-round pick this year. He is expected to be Dallas’ starting WILL LB and should significantly upgrade the position from a season ago. Another move where if he plays as expected, the offseason move could eventually rank higher.
#7 – Rashan Gary (trade)
After not being willing to meet the Raiders asking price for Maxx Crosby, Dallas set their sights on Rashan Gary, acquiring him via trade from the Packers for a 2027 fourth-round pick. His addition upgrades Dallas’ pass rush, even though he’s shown to be a better run defender than pass rusher. He’s a solid veteran who’ll provide leadership and mentor Dallas’ young pass rushers.
#6 – Brandon Aubrey
Locking up Brandon Aubrey to a long-term extension is an underrated offseason move for the Cowboys. He’s turned himself into one of the most consistent and best kickers in the entire league, and the faith Dallas has in him to split the uprights from 50+ yards at any given moment makes him an important weapon. He has game-winning ability any time he steps on the field.
#5 – Jalen Thompson
Whether it’s playing deep, in the box, or nickel, Jalen Thompson is a do-it-all defensive back who will be a big upgrade to the back end of the Cowboys secondary for Christian Parker. His versatility and position flex to play just about anywhere in the secondary will help Parker disguise coverages, making things more difficult for opposing offenses.
#4 – Javonte Williams
Re-signing running back Javonte Williams may be one of the most underrated, yet important, moves the Cowboys have made this offseason. He was one of the biggest surprises a season ago when he performed like one of the top backs in the entire league and will look to build upon the success in Year 2 in Dallas. He’ll help balance out Dallas’ high-powered offense.
#3 – Caleb Downs
The Cowboys could’ve stood pat at No. 12 in the first-round this year in the hopes Caleb Downs would slide right into the laps, but instead traded up one pick to ensure they got him. Downs is expected to be a key fixture in Christian Parker’s new-look defense playing the ever important nickel/safety role. He should be a huge part of the defensive turnaround.
#2 – George Pickens (franchise tag)
By using the franchise tag to retain George Pickens’ services and pairing him with CeeDee Lamb for the 2026 season, the Cowboys should once again have one of the best wide receiver duos in the entire league. With Pickens back in the fold, Dallas’ offense has a chance to be even better than they were last year when they were one of the top units in the entire NFL.
#1 – Christian Parker
Christian Parker claims the top spot and for good reason. If the Cowboys are going to be the Super Bowl contender many have been pegged them as, it’s going to because of their defensive turnaround. Parker’s fingerprints will be all over Dallas’ new-look defense and early returns suggests things are much improved, despite being a first-time defensive coordinator.
