In the 2025 NFL offseason, the Dallas Cowboys made headlines by signing a one-year, $8 million contract with defensive end Dante Fowler Jr., a move labeled as the team’s “most head-scratching” decision by Yardbarker’s Seth Trachtman. As a former first-round pick (third overall) by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2015, Fowler was once expected to become a defensive star, but his rollercoaster career has made this signing a focal point of debate.
Dante Fowler Jr.’s Journey
Dante Fowler Jr. entered the NFL as one of the brightest young talents. However, a severe ACL injury in his rookie year derailed his early development. After stints with the Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, and a brief tenure with the Dallas Cowboys (2022-2023), Fowler rediscovered his form with the Washington Commanders in 2024. There, he recorded an impressive 10.5 sacks, establishing himself as a premier pass-rushing threat at the defensive end position.
Despite this resurgence, Fowler’s earlier time with the Cowboys saw him post a modest 10 sacks and 50 tackles as a rotational player across two seasons. This performance was deemed “mediocre” by critics, including Trachtman, particularly given Fowler’s age of 31—an age when many defensive players begin to decline. This backdrop has fueled skepticism about the Cowboys’ decision to bring him back, especially with an already deep defensive roster.
Why Is This Contract Controversial?
Trachtman argues that signing Fowler is questionable because the Cowboys appear to be banking on a player who may no longer be at his peak and who failed to make a significant impact during his prior stint with the team. At $8 million for one year, some believe the Cowboys could have invested in younger talent or a player with greater long-term potential. Additionally, in an NFL landscape that increasingly favors long-term deals with younger players, signing a short-term contract with a veteran like Fowler seems to buck the trend.
However, not everyone shares this view. Some analysts and Cowboys fans see the move as a savvy, low-risk decision. The one-year deal avoids long-term financial commitment, while capitalizing on Fowler’s familiarity with the team’s system. During his previous two seasons in Dallas, Fowler proved he could contribute effectively in a rotational role, particularly alongside stars like Micah Parsons, one of the NFL’s top defenders.
A Bright Spot in the Cowboys’ Strategy
The Cowboys’ defensive line is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s strongest, boasting talents like Micah Parsons, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Sam Williams, and Marshawn Kneeland. Fowler’s addition is not intended to make him a centerpiece but to enhance depth and versatility. With 10.5 sacks in 2024, Fowler remains a credible threat to opposing quarterbacks, particularly in situations requiring quick pressure.
New (and old) #Cowboys EDGE Dante Fowler functions best in a DPR role where he can really ramp up the juice/urgency on each snap.
After playing just 650 snaps combined in his two years in DAL, when he was a very efficient pass-rusher, his snap total climbed to 642 in his one… pic.twitter.com/nue1l8ctkx
— John Owning (@JohnOwning) March 14, 2025
Moreover, Fowler’s prior experience under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer from 2022-2023 will ease his reintegration. Zimmer, known for his creative defensive schemes, can leverage Fowler’s experience to add variety to the team’s approach. In a roster already stacked with young, dynamic stars, Fowler serves as a reliable veteran, ensuring the team maintains its edge even when key players need rest or face injuries.
Are the Cowboys Making the Right Bet?
Despite being labeled “puzzling,” Fowler’s contract offers more potential than risk. The reasonable price and short term minimize financial pressure, while adding a seasoned player to bolster the defense. As the Cowboys aim to contend for a Super Bowl after years of near-misses, a signing like Fowler could be the missing piece to complete their roster.
However, the success of this move hinges on how the Cowboys deploy Fowler within their system. If he can maintain his 2024 form and mesh well with his teammates, this could prove to be one of the team’s shrewdest decisions of the offseason. Conversely, if Fowler fails to meet expectations, the Cowboys may face criticism for investing in a veteran past his prime.
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys’ signing of Dante Fowler Jr. has sparked a range of reactions within the NFL community. While some view it as a lackluster move, others see the potential in a smart deal that leverages Fowler’s proven ability and experience. Regardless of the outcome, this decision reflects the Cowboys’ willingness to take bold risks to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season. Can Fowler prove his worth and help propel the Cowboys deeper into the championship race? Only time will tell.