The Dallas Cowboys have kept things relatively quiet this offseason, with only a few ripples disturbing their otherwise calm waters. The unresolved contract extension talks with star linebacker Micah Parsons and the bold acquisition of controversial Steelers receiver George Pickens for a 2026 third-round pick have been the primary headlines. But on Wednesday, the Cowboys stirred the pot again with a pair of intriguing roster moves, signing former fourth-round picks Robert Rochell and Perrion Winfrey while parting ways with cornerback Luq Barcoo and defensive tackle Justin Rogers.
What Do These Additions Bring to Dallas?
Robert Rochell: A Potential Diamond in the Rough
Robert Rochell, a 2021 fourth-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams, brings an intriguing resume to Dallas. During his rookie season, Rochell started five games, contributing to the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory in February 2022. The following year, he played all 17 games, primarily on special teams, logging just 26 defensive snaps. After being cut following the 2023 training camp, Rochell bounced around practice squads before landing with the Green Bay Packers, where he appeared in nine games in 2023 but saw no action this past season.
Now in Dallas, Rochell has a legitimate shot at cracking the starting lineup. With Trevon Diggs still recovering from a 2023 ACL injury and his availability for the regular season uncertain, the Cowboys’ cornerback depth is thin. Former Bills first-rounder Kaiir Elam is currently projected to start opposite Diggs, but Rochell’s experience and pedigree could see him challenge for a starting role. Even if rookie third-round pick Shavon Revel Jr. secures a spot, Rochell’s versatility makes him a strong candidate for significant snaps in dime and dollar packages on third downs.
Perrion Winfrey: High Risk, High Reward
Perrion Winfrey, selected early in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns, is a classic high-risk, high-reward signing. Despite his undeniable talent—widely considered worthy of a Day 2 draft pick—character concerns caused his draft slide and eventual release from Cleveland in 2023 following multiple off-field incidents. Since his rookie season, Winfrey has played just one game, with the New York Jets in 2023.
The Cowboys have a history of taking chances on talented players with checkered pasts, and Winfrey fits that mold perfectly. With Mazi Smith and Osa Odighizuwa entrenched as the starting defensive tackles, the depth behind them is limited. Winfrey’s raw ability gives him an outside chance to secure a roster spot and potentially become an impact backup in the middle of Dallas’ defensive line.
A Bold Strategy for Dallas
By cutting Luq Barcoo and Justin Rogers to make room for Rochell and Winfrey, the Cowboys are doubling down on potential over proven consistency. Both players bring significant upside but also carry risks—Rochell due to his limited recent defensive experience and Winfrey due to his off-field history. If either player can recapture their early promise, Dallas may have unearthed two hidden gems. For now, these moves add a layer of intrigue to an already fascinating Cowboys offseason.