The Dallas Cowboys have made bold moves to comply with the NFL’s 90-man roster limit as they prepare for the upcoming season. Leveraging a special exemption, the team executed five significant moves, including cutting four players and utilizing an international exemption for a promising talent. These changes not only ensured compliance with the roster cap but also reshaped the team’s lineup, setting the stage for an ambitious 2025 season under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
Context and Pressure of the Roster Limit
Each NFL team is allowed a maximum of 90 players on its offseason roster, but the Cowboys faced a challenge after exceeding this number following the signing of nine undrafted free agents (UDFAs) and nine selections from the 2025 NFL Draft. According to Blogging The Boys, the team initially had 77 players under contract, but with the new additions, the roster ballooned to 95, necessitating cuts to meet the league’s requirements.
To address this, the Cowboys utilized a special exemption through the NFL’s International Pathway Program, which allows teams to carry an additional international player without counting against the 90-man limit. This enabled Dallas to temporarily maintain a 91-player roster, providing flexibility to evaluate talent before finalizing the 53-man roster.
The Cowboys’ 5 Shocking Moves
Here are the details of the five moves the Dallas Cowboys made to reach the roster limit:
1. Waiving RB Malik Davis
Running back Malik Davis was among those cut from the roster. Despite earlier expectations that he could serve as a complementary piece in the backfield, Davis struggled to compete with established players like Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams, as well as rookie Jaydon Blue—a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft known for his blazing 4.38-second 40-yard dash. This move signals the Cowboys’ preference for playmakers who can provide explosive plays in the offensive scheme.
2. Waiving OG Jack Anderson
Offensive guard Jack Anderson was another casualty of the roster trim. With the arrival of Tyler Booker, a first-round pick from Alabama in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the steady presence of stalwarts like Tyler Smith, the Cowboys’ offensive line became crowded. Anderson, despite his experience, couldn’t secure a spot in the starting lineup, leading to his release.
3. Waiving LB Brock Mogensen
Young linebacker Brock Mogensen was also let go. The linebacker position became highly competitive after the Cowboys drafted Shemar James from Florida in the fifth round. James’ speed and coverage ability outshined Mogensen, making the latter expendable at this stage. This decision underscores Dallas’ strategy to prioritize players with long-term developmental potential.
4. Waiving OT Earl Bostick Jr.
Offensive tackle Earl Bostick Jr. was cut as well. The Cowboys’ offensive line is being fortified with versatile players like Cornelius, who can play both guard and tackle, alongside other rookies. Despite his ideal frame, Bostick didn’t demonstrate enough to earn a spot on an already stacked unit. This move reflects the team’s focus on building a stronger, more adaptable offensive front.
5. Utilizing International Exemption for DT Denzel Daxon
The standout move in this series was the Cowboys’ use of an international exemption for Denzel Daxon, a defensive tackle from the International Pathway Program. Daxon does not count against the 90-man limit, allowing Dallas to carry a total of 91 players. This decision not only ensured compliance but also provided an opportunity to test a promising international talent who could bring fresh energy to the defensive line.
Implications and Strategy
These moves demonstrate a calculated overhaul by the Cowboys under Brian Schottenheimer, who took over after Mike McCarthy’s departure. According to an article on motorcyclesports.net, Schottenheimer is reshaping the team with an emphasis on physicality and resilience, addressing weaknesses from the previous season. Cutting depth players like Davis, Anderson, Mogensen, and Bostick shows the team’s willingness to make tough decisions to prioritize quality over quantity.
The exemption for Daxon is a savvy move, reflecting the Cowboys’ long-term vision of tapping into global talent. It aligns with the NFL’s growing trend of expanding opportunities for international players while giving Dallas a competitive edge.
Reactions from Fans and Analysts
Cowboys fans, often referred to as “Cowboys Nation,” have expressed mixed reactions on social media. Some support the moves, believing they streamline the roster and focus on top-tier talent. Others expressed disappointment, particularly over Malik Davis, who was seen as a potential breakout candidate. Posts on X from users like @tommy_yarrish and @DakPrescottBr quickly shared updates about the cuts and Denzel Daxon, sparking lively discussions.
Analysts from Blogging The Boys and SI.com have praised the Cowboys’ decisiveness in shaping the roster. However, they note that the team still needs to add a veteran wide receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott, with names like Amari Cooper and George Pickens previously mentioned as potential targets.
Looking Ahead
With a 91-man roster in place, the Cowboys are well-positioned to continue evaluating and refining their lineup during offseason practices. Rookies like Tyler Booker, Donovan Ezeiruaku, and Jaydon Blue are expected to inject new energy, while the exemption for Denzel Daxon opens the door for innovative defensive strategies.
Under Schottenheimer’s leadership and the shrewd management of owner Jerry Jones, the Cowboys are signaling their intent to “build a bully,” as Blogging The Boys described. The 2025 season promises to be a thrilling journey, and these moves mark the first steps toward a return to prominence.