These 3 Dallas Cowboys might have recognizable names, but they’re also in danger of being released ahead of the regular season.
This was a busy offseason for the Dallas Cowboys, with their coaching change taking center stage. Brian Schottenheimer took over for Mike McCarthy, bringing a new feel to the building.
They also made several changes to their roster. The biggest addition was George Pickens, who was added in a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He gives them an elite duo at wide receiver when paired with CeeDee Lamb, and he was excellent in his first minicamp with the team
Dallas also filled out their depth chart, with competition being the key focal point. That means it won’t be easy to make the 53-man roster, with these three players already on thin ice.
New Orleans Saints defensive end Payton Turner reacts to sacking Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins / Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Payton Turner, EDGE
Payton Turner, a former first-round pick (28th overall) by the New Orleans Saints in the 2021 NFL Draft, is fighting an uphill battle to secure a spot with the Cowboys. Turner’s tenure in New Orleans was plagued by injuries, limiting him to just 31 games over three seasons. Now in Dallas, he finds himself in a crowded defensive end room, competing against other high-pedigree players like Kaiir Elam, who has been capitalizing on his opportunities with injuries sidelining key cornerbacks Trevon Diggs and Shavon Revel.
Turner’s limited playing time and injury history have put him on thin ice. With the Cowboys prioritizing players who can make an immediate impact, Turner’s lack of consistent production could lead to his release before the regular season begins.
Will Grier, QB
Will Grier, the current third-string quarterback behind Dak Prescott and Joe Milton III, faces an uncertain future despite having no direct competition for the QB3 role. The Cowboys have their top two quarterback spots locked in, but the decision to carry only two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster could spell trouble for Grier. While Dallas would likely prefer to stash him on the practice squad, releasing him opens the door for another team to claim him off waivers.
Grier’s experience and familiarity with the Cowboys’ system make him a valuable depth piece, but roster constraints and the team’s depth at other positions might force Dallas to make a tough decision during training camp cuts.
Deuce Vaughn, RB
Fan-favorite Deuce Vaughn captured hearts when his father, a Cowboys scout, called to inform him of his draft selection in 2023. However, the 5-foot-5 running back has struggled to translate that emotional connection into on-field production. In two seasons, Vaughn has managed just 110 yards on 40 carries, leaving him on the fringes of the Cowboys’ crowded running back room.
Despite a connection to new offensive line coach Conor Riley, Vaughn’s roster spot is far from secure. The emergence of Miles Sanders, who has impressed in recent performances, further dims Vaughn’s prospects. With Dallas prioritizing versatility and production in their backfield, Vaughn’s lack of impact could see him cut as training camp progresses.
Conclusion
The Cowboys’ emphasis on competition means no player is safe, no matter how recognizable their name. Payton Turner, Will Grier, and Deuce Vaughn are all at risk of being released as Dallas finalizes its 53-man roster. Training camp will be the proving ground for these players, but with limited spots and fierce competition, their time in Dallas may be coming to an unexpected end.