Image Source: Dallas Cowboys
Cowboys depth chart planning continued Monday as Dallas began assembling its 2026 practice squad. The team announced 13 signings, bringing back several familiar players who made an impression during training camp and the preseason.
The moves came after the Cowboys completed their initial 53-man roster on Sunday, two days after the preseason finale against the New Orleans Saints. Players who cleared waivers then became free agents, allowing Dallas to secure important developmental talent and add insurance at several positions.
Key Cowboys Depth Chart Reinforcements Revealed
Reddy Steward headlines the early group of additions. The defensive back was considered one of the more difficult cuts for Dallas, having shown the ability to line up as a nickel corner and move into a safety role. His return gives the club a versatile option in the secondary while allowing him to continue competing for a future roster opportunity.
Israel Abanikanda also returns after competing for a place in the running backs room. With Dallas still shaping its offensive backfield, the former Pittsburgh player offers another option for the practice squad and could become an important call-up if injuries affect the active roster.
- Reddy Steward, defensive back, Troy
- Israel Abanikanda, running back, Pittsburgh
- Justin Barron, linebacker, Syracuse
- Tommy Dunn, defensive tackle, Kansas
- Jordan Hudson, wide receiver, Southern Methodist
- Marcellus Johnson, offensive tackle, Missouri
- Derion Kendrick, defensive back, Georgia
- Anthony Smith, wide receiver, East Carolina
- Michael Trigg, tight end, Baylor
- Isaiah Land, linebacker, Florida A&M
- Nick Leverett, center, Rice
- Curtis Robinson, linebacker, Stanford
- Adedayo Odeleye, defensive tackle, no college listed
Explosive Potential Across Several Position Groups
Justin Barron impressed throughout training camp and gives the linebacker group additional depth. His return keeps a promising young player in the organization while giving the coaching staff more flexibility when preparing for weekly matchups.
At tight end, Michael Trigg’s athleticism has reportedly generated excitement from tight ends coach Lunda Wells. Trigg will continue developing behind the established players on the active roster, but his physical tools could make him an intriguing option as the season progresses.
Tommy Dunn provides insurance along the defensive interior after narrowly missing the initial 53-man roster. The Cowboys can now continue evaluating him while maintaining a potential replacement should injuries or performance issues affect the defensive tackle rotation.
The wide receiver room remains one of the more competitive areas of the team. Jordan Hudson and seventh-round pick Anthony Smith will continue working in that crowded group. Smith’s speed remains a notable part of his profile, and the practice squad gives him time to refine his game and prove he deserves another opportunity.
What the Practice Squad Means for Dallas
The Cowboys traditionally build much of their practice squad with players who spent training camp in Dallas. The early 2026 group follows that approach, featuring players who already understand the team’s terminology, routines and expectations.
A practice squad is more than a holding area for young prospects. It serves as an important extension of the active roster, providing emergency depth and allowing coaches to develop players without immediately placing them into a game-day role. The Cowboys’ current signings cover the secondary, backfield, offensive line, defensive front and skill positions.
The team’s practice squad is expected to eventually reach 17 players, including the International Pathway Player exemption. Monday’s list is therefore likely to change before the regular season begins, with additional signings possible over the next two weeks.
Dallas is scheduled to open the 2026 regular season against the New York Giants. That gives the coaching staff valuable time to assess the new practice squad, monitor injuries and determine which players could be elevated when the team needs reinforcements.
Why These Roster Moves Matter
The Cowboys are attempting to build a roster capable of ending a 30-year championship drought. While practice squad transactions rarely attract the same attention as major free-agent signings, they can influence a season when injuries create unexpected opportunities.
Steward’s versatility, Abanikanda’s running back depth, Barron’s strong camp and Trigg’s athletic upside make this group especially meaningful. The additions also show that roster construction did not end with the 53-man announcement. Dallas will continue adjusting its depth chart as it prepares for opening day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the most notable Cowboys practice squad signing?
Reddy Steward stands out because of his versatility as both a nickel corner and safety. Dallas viewed him as one of its tougher cuts and was pleased to bring him back.
How many players did the Cowboys initially add?
Dallas announced 13 practice squad signings on August 31, 2026. The group is expected to grow as the team continues filling its 17-player practice squad.
Can practice squad players appear in games?
Yes. Practice squad players may be elevated for games under NFL roster rules, giving teams access to additional depth when injuries or tactical needs arise.
When do the Cowboys begin the regular season?
The Cowboys are scheduled to open the 2026 regular season against the New York Giants in approximately two weeks.
