Pro Football Rumors
The Cowboys have understandably prioritized defensive additions this offseason. One such move was the trade acquisition of linebacker Dee Winters.
Winters spent his first three seasons in San Francisco. The former sixth-rounder operated on special teams as a rookie, but saw his defensive workload increase in 2024. Last season, injuries at the second level helped result in Winters handling a 92% snap share.
New personal marks were set across the board, with Winters tallying 101 tackles, five pass deflections and the first interception of his career. Expectations will be high in his case upon arrival in Dallas. Jon Machota of The Athletic writes Winters is expected to occupy a starting role with the Cowboys in 2026. He will be joined in that regard by DeMarvion Overshown.
Both players are entering the final year of their rookie deals. Overshown’s value will be determined in large part by his ability to remain healthy. The 25-year-old missed the 2023 campaign due to an ACL tear, and he has played only 19 games since then. Strong play from Overshown in particular and the linebacker position in general will be critical when it comes to Dallas’ playoff outlook for 2026.
Winters is entering his age-26 season. A productive campaign in his case would result in a strong market, either on a new Cowboys contract or one sending him elsewhere. The TCU product and Texas native will spend at least one season in his home state, and it will be interesting to see if he manages to land a Dallas commitment next spring.
New defensive coordinator Christian Parker is tasked with overseeing much-needed improvement during his first year as a coordinator. The linebacker spot in particular will be one to watch given Dallas’ depth at the position. If Winters can replicate his 2025 production, though, the second level of the Cowboys’ defense would stand to benefit.
