FRISCO, TEXAS — With the Dallas Cowboys approaching their bye week, many expected potential blockbuster trades or significant roster moves to bolster a team that’s struggled on both sides of the ball. While the front office has confirmed there are no major trades in the works, they are quietly making moves to strengthen key areas, starting with the signing of defensive end Jalen Dalton.
Who Is Jalen Dalton?
Dalton, 27, is no stranger to the NFL journey. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Chicago Bears in 2019 after a solid collegiate career at North Carolina. Though he didn’t make a lasting impact in Chicago, he continued to battle for opportunities, bouncing around the league with teams like the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints.
His professional career also took him to the XFL, where he suited up for the Seattle Sea Dragons and San Antonio Brahmas, refining his skills and showing resilience. Dalton now gets another shot at the NFL, this time with the Cowboys, as he looks to contribute to a defense that has been hit hard by injuries to key players like Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence.
Why the Cowboys Need Him
Dallas’ defense has been the backbone of the team in recent years, but this season, injuries and inconsistency have raised concerns. The defensive line, in particular, has struggled with both depth and health, making Dalton’s signing a low-risk move that could potentially pay off in the weeks ahead.
Dalton’s size (6’6”, 300 lbs) and versatility could give Dallas much-needed rotational support, especially with key games on the horizon. He’ll have two weeks to integrate himself into the Cowboys’ system and show coaches he’s ready for game action.
Eyeing Week 8
While Dalton may not be a household name, his addition could be a strategic one for Dallas as they look ahead to a crucial Week 8 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The Cowboys have been desperate for fresh bodies on the defensive line, and if Dalton can ramp up quickly, he may find himself on the field sooner than later.
It’s unlikely Dalton will be a game-changer overnight, but in the NFL, it’s often about finding the right pieces to fit the puzzle. As the Cowboys’ season hangs in the balance, every addition counts, and Dalton has a chance to prove he belongs back in the league.
What’s Next?
With two weeks to prepare, all eyes will be on Dalton’s progress in practice. Will he get a chance to make an impact as early as Week 8? Cowboys fans will be eager to see if this signing, though under the radar, can help shore up a defense in need of reinforcement.
