3 Players the Cowboys Could Release to Open Up Cap Space for Free Agents

By LP Cruz | Mon, February 2, 2026 at 2:00 AM GMT+7

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are facing some financial challenges. Despite the projected increase in the salary cap, which is expected to jump by over $20 million to a range of $301.2 million to $305.7 million, the Cowboys are still $31.4 million over the cap, according to overthecap.com. With key free agents like Brandon Aubrey, George Pickens, and Javonte Williams expecting significant contracts after strong seasons, the Cowboys will need to clear some cap space to keep these players in Dallas.

While restructuring contracts will certainly be part of the plan, another avenue the Cowboys could pursue is releasing veterans to create more financial flexibility. Here are three veterans who could potentially be cut to free up significant cap space for the Cowboys to pursue new talent:

1. Kenny Clark – $21M in Savings

When the Cowboys acquired Kenny Clark from the Green Bay Packers in the Micah Parsons trade, there were high hopes for the defensive tackle. Clark, a former Pro Bowler with a strong pedigree, seemed like an ideal complement to Osa Odighizuwa on the interior defensive line. However, the dynamics of the team changed dramatically when Dallas traded for Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets. Williams is an All-Pro-caliber player with several years left on his contract, giving the Cowboys a star talent for the long-term.

Meanwhile, Clark’s production has tapered off in recent seasons, with just four sacks and 26 quarterback pressures over the past two years. His cost, which would require the Cowboys to pay $21M, is becoming hard to justify, especially with the rise of Williams and Odighizuwa, who carries a significant dead cap hit of $32M in 2026. Cutting Clark would save the Cowboys $21 million in cap space, and with no dead salary costs from his release, it could be a move worth considering if they want to restructure their defensive line.

2. Malik Hooker – $6M in Savings

The decision to move on from Malik Hooker may have been made easier after Christian Parker was named the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys. Parker has a proven track record of developing young secondary talent, and Juanyeh Thomas, in particular, could take a step forward under his tutelage, potentially making Hooker expendable.

At 30 years old, Hooker’s best years may be behind him. Though he has been a steady presence in the Cowboys’ secondary, the team has Donovan Wilson, who is also turning 31, and neither has proven to be irreplaceable over the past two seasons. Additionally, the Cowboys are reportedly eyeing safety prospects in the draft, with Caleb Downs being a fan favorite. By releasing Hooker, the Cowboys could save $6 million in cap space while giving themselves the opportunity to bring in younger, more cost-effective talent at the safety position.

3. Terence Steele – $9M in Savings

One of the more controversial decisions for the Cowboys could be moving on from Terence Steele, their right tackle who was signed to a five-year, $86.8 million contract in 2023. Steele’s development has been a mixed bag. While he is a strong run blocker, his pass protection has been a major point of concern. In 2026, Steele earned a 54.9 grade in pass blocking per PFF, ranking just 75th out of 89 eligible players. This has led to frustration, as Dak Prescott has often been pressured quickly by opposing pass rushers.

Cutting Steele would leave a hole in the offensive line, but the Cowboys could use free agency and the draft to fill the gap. With $9 million in cap savings by cutting Steele, the Cowboys would gain significant financial flexibility to explore other options, especially given the importance of ensuring Prescott has better protection moving forward.

The Bottom Line: Creating Cap Space for the Future

With a projected salary cap increase in 2026, the Cowboys have an opportunity to make moves and strengthen their roster. However, with a number of key free agents to re-sign and a few aging veterans on the roster, they need to make some tough decisions to free up cap space. Releasing Kenny Clark, Malik Hooker, and Terence Steele could potentially save the Cowboys $36 million in cap space, allowing them to target new players in free agency and ensure they retain their own emerging stars.

By taking these steps, the Dallas Cowboys can continue to build a competitive roster while maintaining financial flexibility, ensuring they stay in the hunt for a Super Bowl in the coming seasons.