In a league where every roster move can spark a season-defining shift, the Dallas Cowboys made a savvy play on Wednesday, diving into the NFL waiver wire to bolster their injury-riddled secondary. With the precision of prospectors panning for gold, the Cowboys claimed two defensive backs—2024 undrafted free agent Reddy Steward and 2025 seventh-round pick Trikweze Bridges—whose potential could turn them into game-changers for America’s Team.
The Cowboys’ secondary has been hit hard by injuries, leaving the unit dangerously thin as the season looms. With star cornerback Trevon Diggs likely sidelined for the season opener, Dallas needed depth and talent to shore up their defensive backfield. Enter Steward and Bridges, two players who may have been overlooked by others but caught the keen eye of the Cowboys’ front office.
Reddy Steward, who spent last season on the Chicago Bears’ practice squad under defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, brings familiarity and promise. His standout performance in the 2024 preseason earned him an impressive Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 83.6, ranking him among the top cornerbacks in exhibition play. Steward’s instincts, quick feet, and knack for reading plays make him a potential steal, ready to prove he belongs on the big stage.
Meanwhile, Trikweze Bridges, recently waived by the Los Angeles Chargers, adds another layer of intrigue. A 2025 seventh-round pick, Bridges spent three years at Oregon under Junior Adams, now the Cowboys’ wide receivers coach, forging a connection that could ease his transition to Dallas. After finishing his college career at Florida, Bridges brings versatility and raw athleticism that could shine in the Cowboys’ defensive schemes.
While neither player is expected to immediately anchor the defense, their addition provides critical insurance for a secondary in need of reinforcements. Steward’s familiarity with Eberflus’ system and Bridges’ ties to the coaching staff give them a head start in adapting to Dallas’ high-octane expectations. These under-the-radar pickups could prove to be diamonds in the rough, ready to shine when called upon.
The Cowboys will need all the depth they can muster as they kick off the season against the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, September 4, at Lincoln Financial Field. With kickoff set for 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, the stage is set for these hidden gems to begin their journey from the waiver wire to the spotlight. For Dallas, finding gold in the scrap heap could be the key to a playoff-caliber defense.