Overview
- At the NFL Combine, EVP Stephen Jones referenced the 2026 charges for Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams and said the Cowboys will "need their room," signaling potential restructures or extensions rather than releases.
- Williams and Clark carry projected 2026 cap hits of about $21.6 million and $21.5 million, respectively, contributing to one of the league’s priciest interior defensive lines.
- Dallas is more than $24 million over the salary cap and must create space to get compliant and to pursue veterans on the open market.
- Fitting an expected $28 million franchise tag for wide receiver George Pickens is a key driver of the team’s cap strategy, alongside plans to shop for linebackers, edge rushers and safeties.
- The Cowboys have made no contract moves yet but hold two first-round picks likely earmarked for defense as new coordinator Christian Parker shapes the unit.