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The Dallas Cowboys face yet another tough roster decision this offseason, this time in the secondary. Veteran safety Donovan Wilson may be the next cap casualty, as the team looks for ways to create financial flexibility heading into a pivotal season.
Wilson, who has spent his entire NFL career with the Cowboys, is now a potential cut candidate due to a crowded safety room and underwhelming performance in 2024. If released after June 1, Dallas would save more than $8 million in salary cap space, money that could be crucial as the franchise looks to lock down superstar linebacker Micah Parsons with a long-term deal.
Performance slump and rising competition
Wilson's 2024 season didn't do him any favors. According to Pro Football Focus, he ranked 97th among NFL safeties, a steep drop for a player who had previously been a key contributor. He recorded just one interception and allowed 31 receptions in coverage, placing him 26th among safeties in that metric.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys have been actively investing in younger, more cost-effective talent. Safeties Markquese Bell, Juanyeh Thomas, and Israel Mukuamu have all signed extensions, signaling a shift in focus toward the next generation of defensive backs.
Cap savings could a Parsons extension
Dallas has made it clear that re-g Micah Parsons is a top priority, though progress on that front has been slow. Freeing up $8 million by releasing Wilson could accelerate negotiations and ease the pressure on the front office as they work to manage a tight salary cap.
While Wilson's veteran presence and experience have value, the numbers and the depth chart suggest he may no longer be essential to the Cowboys' future.
Decision could come soon
All signs point to a post-June 1 decision, when the cap savings would be most beneficial. If the Cowboys choose to move on from Wilson, it would mark the end of a solid run for the 29-year-old safety in Dallas, and signal the team's continued emphasis on building for the future.
As training camp approaches, Wilson's status remains one of the biggest questions looming over Dallas' defense