Dallas Cowboys Lose Key DB Depth to Colts in NFL Free Agency

The Dallas Cowboys have made several significant moves in the early stages of NFL free agency, but as expected, they’ve also begun to see some familiar faces depart. On Friday afternoon, the Cowboys lost safety Juanyeh Thomas to the Indianapolis Colts, marking a notable shift in the team’s secondary depth.

Thomas’ Departure and Impact on the Cowboys

Thomas, who has spent the past three years with the Cowboys, has been a dependable player, appearing in 36 games with four starts. Unfortunately, his 2025 season was marred by migraine issues, limiting him to just seven games. Despite these setbacks, Thomas was still a valuable piece in the Cowboys’ defensive rotation. His departure to the Colts marks a fresh start for the 26-year-old safety in the AFC South, where he hopes to regain his health and contribute to a new defensive scheme.

Given the Cowboys’ early moves in free agency, Thomas’ exit seemed inevitable. Dallas made notable signings to bolster their secondary, including Jalen Thompson from the Arizona Cardinals and P.J. Locke from the Denver Broncos. Both players are familiar with the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, Christian Parker, and are expected to battle for starting roles in the defensive backfield. These acquisitions made it clear that Thomas’ spot in the lineup was no longer secure, paving the way for his departure.

Dallas Cowboys’ Free Agency Overview

The Cowboys have been active in reshaping their roster this offseason. Along with their safety signings, Dallas made significant moves on both sides of the ball:

• Trades:

  • Rashan Gary, the star defensive edge player from the Green Bay Packers, was acquired to play outside linebacker in Parker’s new defensive scheme.

  • Osa Odighizuwa, a defensive tackle, was traded to the San Francisco 49ers.

  • Solomon Thomas, another defensive lineman, was traded to the Tennessee Titans.

• Signings/Re-Signings:

  • Brandon Aubrey was placed on a second-round tender.

  • T.J. Bass, a guard, was also placed on a second-round tender.

  • The Cowboys signed Cobie Durant, a cornerback, and Princeton Fant, a tight end.

  • Matt Hennessy, an offensive lineman, was added to the team.

  • Sam Howell, a quarterback, also joined Dallas.

  • P.J. Locke and Jalen Thompson, both safeties, were brought in to strengthen the secondary.

  • Otito Ogbonnia, a defensive tackle, and Tyrus Wheat, a defensive end, were signed to reinforce the defensive line.

  • Javonte Williams, a running back, and Sam Williams, a defensive end, were also added to the roster.

• Departures:

  • Jalen Tolbert, the wide receiver, signed with the Miami Dolphins.

  • Juanyeh Thomas signed with the Indianapolis Colts.

Looking Ahead

As the Cowboys continue to make moves, it’s clear they are focused on strengthening both their offense and defense for the 2026 season. While Thomas’ departure is a blow to the depth of the secondary, the signings of Thompson and Locke provide fresh options and potential upgrades. The team’s efforts in reshaping their defense, particularly with the addition of Rashan Gary and other key defensive pieces, signal that they are aiming for another championship run.

Dallas will look to build on their already solid foundation with these new additions as they aim to improve in key areas. The Cowboys’ offseason is far from over, and fans can expect more moves as the team continues to refine its roster ahead of the upcoming season. With a blend of veteran leadership and young talent, the Cowboys are shaping up to be a formidable force in 2026.