The Dallas Cowboys are making important adjustments to their safety position as they gear up for the 2026 season. The team, which ranked as the worst defense in the NFL last year by allowing 511 points, is under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
Only Malik Hooker and Markquese Bell remain from last season's safety roster. The Cowboys have made considerable investments in this area, including the signing of Jalen Thompson, their most costly free agent acquisition in over a decade, and the addition of PJ Locke, who has experience with Parker.
They also selected Caleb Downs with the No. 11 pick in the draft, demonstrating their commitment to bolstering the safety unit.
Bell's future with the team has become uncertain following his arrest in April on charges related to controlled substances and marijuana. His absence from a recent preseason matchup against the Cardinals, where he was not in uniform, has raised questions about his standing on the team.
Sports commentator Zach Wolchuk suggested that this could indicate Bell's security in his role, although the Cowboys still face challenging choices about their safety roster.
