Cowboys Free Agency Roundup: Dallas Wastes No Time Reshaping Roster in 2025. With key trades, signings, and departures, the team made major moves on the defensive side of the ball while saying goodbye to some longtime players.
Here’s a full Cowboys free agency roundup from the first day of signings and trades.
Cowboys Trade for Titans LB Kenneth Murray
To strengthen the linebacker unit, the Cowboys traded for Titans linebacker Kenneth Murray. A former first-round pick in 2020, Murray played for the Chargers before joining Tennessee, where he led the team with 95 tackles last season.
Now, he brings his playmaking ability to Dallas, aiming to solidify the middle of the defense under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus.
DeMarcus Lawrence Departs, Signs with Seahawks
A franchise staple for over a decade, DeMarcus Lawrence is leaving Dallas after agreeing to terms with the Seattle Seahawks. The four-time Pro Bowler will reunite with former Cowboys defensive line coach Aden Durde in Seattle.
Lawrence played a major role in the Cowboys’ defensive identity since 2014, making his departure a significant change for the team.
Kaiir Elam of the Bills is traded to the Cowboys.
In addition, Dallas acquired Buffalo Bills cornerback Kaiir Elam in a secondary transaction. Elam and a 2025 sixth-round selection were received by the Cowboys in return for a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2026 seventh-round pick.
Elam, a 2022 first-round selection, has made 12 starts for Buffalo in three seasons. Cowboys might get much-needed depth in the secondary thanks to his size and speed.
The Cowboys sign LB Sanborn, Jack
The Cowboys signed linebacker Jack Sanborn to a one-year contract as part of their ongoing defensive drive. In 2024, the former Chicago Bear had 1.5 sacks and 35 tackles while playing as a rotational player.
Sanborn, who is only 24 years old, may provide the Cowboys’ defensive strategy much-needed depth and adaptability.
Rico Dowdle Signs with Panthers
On the offensive side, running back Rico Dowdle has left the Cowboys to sign with the Carolina Panthers. The North Carolina native agreed to a one-year, $6 million deal with $3 million guaranteed.
Dowdle made history as the first undrafted Cowboys player to rush for over 1,000 yards in a season (2024). The Cowboys are searching for fresh running alternatives in the backfield as a result of his departure.
What Will Happen to the Cowboys Next?
With further changes probably in the NFL Draft and NFL free agency in 2025, the Cowboys are obviously intent on improving their defense. Will they keep bringing in talent, or will there be more exits soon? Keep an eye out.
Source: Dallas Cow Boys