The Dallas Cowboys were active on the waiver wire following roster cutdowns, making several adjustments that reshaped the depth chart ahead of the 2025 season. The moves highlight the team’s continued effort to balance immediate needs with long-term depth.

Cowboys Add Two Defensive Backs

Dallas used its waiver position to claim two young defensive backs, bolstering secondary depth:

• Trikweze Bridges, a rookie seventh-round pick from the Los Angeles Chargers, is known for his length and athleticism. He brings developmental upside to Dallas’ defensive backfield.

• Reddy Steward, who spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and previously worked under Cowboys defensive staff in Chicago, adds familiarity and versatility.

Both players immediately slot into a crowded defensive room competing for rotation snaps.

IR Moves to Clear Roster Space

To make room on the 53-man roster, the Cowboys are expected to place rookie running back Phil Mafah (shoulder) and rookie cornerback Caelen Carson (knee) on injured reserve (IR).

Under NFL rules, this allows Dallas to keep their rights while freeing up roster spots. Both players are eligible to return later in the season, keeping the Cowboys’ depth intact once they recover.

Tyrus Wheat Claimed by Lions

Dallas did lose one contributor in the shuffle. Tyrus Wheat, an edge rusher who carved out a niche on special teams, was claimed by the Detroit Lions. The Cowboys had hoped to retain Wheat on their practice squad, but his versatility and effort made him a target for Detroit.

This departure leaves a gap in special teams production, though Dallas will look to other young defenders to step up.

Who Could Return to the Practice Squad?

Several players waived by Dallas have cleared the wire and remain options for the practice squad. Among them:

• Traeshon Holden (WR),

• Justin Barron (LB),

• Alijah Clark (DB).

All three provide developmental potential and could rejoin the organization in short order.

Final Takeaway

The Cowboys’ waiver wire activity reflects a clear strategy: strengthen the secondary with promising young talent, protect injured rookies by stashing them on IR, and accept the cost of losing a role player like Tyrus Wheat.

As Week 1 approaches, Dallas has shown it is willing to make the hard calls necessary to keep the roster competitive — and flexible — for the long grind of the NFL season.