With one game left in the 2025 season, the Dallas Cowboys are officially turning the page to 2026. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer‘s first year didn’t deliver the playoff success hoped for, but there’s plenty of foundation to build on. The offense ranked among the league’s best, capable of beating anyone—as proven by back-to-back wins over the previous season’s Super Bowl teams. The defense, however, struggled mightily, often unable to stop opposing offenses.
As the offseason begins, Dallas knows exactly where to focus: retaining key free agents to maintain strengths and shore up weaknesses. Here are the top four priorities for Jerry Jones and the front office:
1. George Pickens, WR (Unrestricted Free Agent)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens celebrates a touchdown during the second half against the Carolina Panthers.
After skipping wide receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Cowboys took a calculated risk on former Pittsburgh Steelers wideout George Pickens. Questions about his character lingered, but Pickens has been a revelation in Dallas, leading the team with 92 receptions, 1,420 yards, and 9 touchdowns. He’s become a true WR1 and earned a massive payday. The franchise tag is the safest (and likely only) way to keep him in 2026—whatever it takes, Pickens must stay.
2. Javonte Williams, RB (Unrestricted Free Agent)
Dallas Cowboys RB Javonte Williams runs onto the field for warmups before the game against the Washington Commanders.
Javonte Williams signed a one-year prove-it deal this offseason and delivered in spades: 1,338 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns entering Week 18. He’s been everything the Cowboys hoped for—explosive, durable, and a perfect complement to the passing game. While he won’t come cheap like last time, Dallas must find a way to retain him for at least one more season. A running back room without Williams would be a major downgrade.
3. Brandon Aubrey, K (Restricted Free Agent)
Dallas Cowboys place kicker Brandon Aubrey kicks a field goal against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Brandon Aubrey is the ultimate weapon. As long as the Cowboys get near midfield, they have a legitimate shot at points. Aubrey’s clutch accuracy and range make him one of the league’s best kickers. As a restricted free agent, Dallas can match any offer, but they shouldn’t let it get that far. Lock him up first—there’s no reason to risk losing the most reliable kicker in the game.
4. Jadeveon Clowney, DE (Unrestricted Free Agent)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Jadeveon Clowney celebrates after he sacks Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
Signed after Week 2 following a 40-point meltdown against the Packers, Jadeveon Clowney needed time to shake off rust but has been a force in the second half. Entering Week 18, he has 35 tackles and 5.5 sacks (tied for team lead). The veteran wants to sign earlier in 2026 to avoid early-season struggles, and the Cowboys should make it happen. Even with young edge rushers on the roster, depth is key—Clowney’s veteran presence and pass-rush juice are too valuable to lose.
Honorable Mentions: Brock Hoffman & T.J. Bass (Both IOL, Unrestricted Free Agents)
Dallas Cowboys guard T.J. Bass warms up before the game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Dallas relied heavily on backups this season due to injuries, and Brock Hoffman and T.J. Bass stepped up admirably. Hoffman can play all three interior spots at a high level, while Bass has developed into an excellent swing guard (even filling in at left guard when needed). Keeping both would be ideal, but their strong performances could price them out of Dallas.
The Cowboys have offensive firepower and young talent to build around, but retaining these key free agents is critical to avoiding a major step backward in 2026. Jerry Jones has the cap space and the motivation—now it’s about getting the deals done.
Cowboys Nation, the offseason starts now. These re-signings could be the difference between contender and pretender.