Inside The Star
The Dallas Cowboys could strengthen their struggling secondary by signing one of three available veteran safeties — George Odum, Marcus Maye, or John Johnson III — each capable of making an immediate impact.
The Dallas Cowboys’ safeties have been one of the most inconsistent units in football this season.
Missed tackles, late rotations, and blown coverages have repeatedly cost Dallas in critical moments — an unsettling trend for a defense that once prided itself on speed and discipline.
As the playoff push approaches, the Cowboys may need outside help to stabilize the back end, and the free-agent market offers several proven options.
Three veteran safeties — George Odum, Marcus Maye, and John Johnson III — all remain unsigned and could make an immediate impact in Dallas.
Each brings unique value: Odum offers toughness and special-teams leadership, Maye provides steady starting experience, and Johnson combines intelligence with a history of top-tier playmaking.
A former All-Pro special-teams standout, George Odum built his reputation through effort and adaptability — two traits the Cowboys could use immediately.
According to Sharp Football Analysis, Odum ranks among the best remaining free agents on the market, and his 69.8 run-defense grade from PFF proves he can still contribute defensively as well.
During his stint with San Francisco, Odum emerged as a locker-room leader and reliable role player.
He’s not a coverage specialist, but his range, communication skills, and physicality make him a valuable rotational safety. His special-teams excellence also fills an underrated need for Dallas, whose coverage units have lacked consistency all year.
If the Cowboys want a veteran who brings energy, leadership, and versatility, Odum would be a low-risk signing with high culture value.
Even coming off an elbow injury that ended his 2024 season, his toughness and mentality fit perfectly with what Dallas preaches on defense.
Once a second-round pick by the Jets, Marcus Maye has long been one of the most reliable veteran safeties in the league when healthy.
In his peak seasons, Maye showcased excellent range in coverage and strong tackling ability in run support. He’s a physical, intelligent defender who rarely finds himself out of position.
According to PFF, Maye earned a 72.9 overall grade in his last full season, showing solid balance between coverage and physicality.
Recently, he worked out for the Los Angeles Chargers — proof that teams still view him as a starter-caliber safety (CBS Sports).
His football IQ and ability to read quarterbacks could be a stabilizing force for a Dallas defense that’s struggled with communication breakdowns in zone coverage.
If signed, Maye could step in immediately as a veteran leader on the back end. He has enough range to play deep safety but is also capable of sliding into the box against heavier formations.
While age and durability are mild concerns, his experience would give the Cowboys an instant upgrade in reliability and awareness.
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