Santa Clara, CA – April 2026

The San Francisco 49ers have made a quiet but emotional roster move during the 2026 NFL Draft, parting ways with a respected locker room presence in a decision that reflects the harsh realities of roster construction.

Linebacker Dee Winters has officially been traded to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a Day 3 draft pick, closing a meaningful chapter in San Francisco.

While the move was driven by depth and strategic planning, the emotional impact was undeniable for both the player and the organization.

Originally a sixth-round pick, Winters had built a reputation as a reliable contributor and a high-energy presence on special teams, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.

Following the trade, Winters shared a heartfelt message to the city and fanbase that supported him from the very beginning.

“San Francisco will always be special to me. The fans embraced me from the first day I stepped into that locker room. I gave everything I had every time I wore that jersey, and I’ll forever be grateful for the love and the memories.”

His departure comes as the 49ers continue to reshape their linebacker room, especially with the return of Dre Greenlaw alongside Fred Warner, limiting opportunities for depth players.

From a front office perspective, the move was less about performance and more about maximizing roster value in a crowded position group.

General manager John Lynch acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing Winters’ importance to the team culture.

Still, with the Cowboys showing long-term interest, the 49ers saw an opportunity to convert depth into valuable draft capital.

For Winters, the trade represents more than just a change of scenery.

It is a chance to step into a larger role in Dallas and prove his value on a bigger stage.

But in San Francisco, his impact will not be forgotten.

For the 49ers, it was a calculated move for the future.

For Dee Winters, it was a goodbye filled with gratitude, respect, and unfinished emotion.