The Dallas Cowboys' 2025 roster is locked in, with the one remaining piece of the puzzle being the future of defensive star Micah Parsons. Cowboys fans are one blockbuster extension away from having reason for hope that perhaps this team is different than the frustrating 2024 season. A big piece of this is receiver George Pickens, who made the position far deeper and helped to push Jalen Brooks out of a roster spot.
Brooks was among the final Dallas cuts on Tuesday, leaving room to wonder what the future might hold. It is fair to wonder if a familiar rival might yet again target a former Cowboy. It is something the Washington Commanders have made a recent habit of with Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler, Tyler Biadasz, and Michael Gallup all joining the roster over the past few seasons.
A big piece of this is due to last year's addition of Dan Quinn; it makes sense that the former Dallas DC wants to target familiar pieces. Perhaps Brooks could be next in line with the Commanders, looking at the Dallas receiver as a possible practice squad addition. It is a move that is at least plausible with Washington's recent tendencies.
Pelissero: Jalen Brooks to be waived by the Cowboys.
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) August 26, 2025
Former Cowboys Receiver Jalen Brooks Could Find New Home with Division Rival
On Tuesday, it was revealed Brooks fell short of making the Cowboys' roster. Only five receivers made the first Dallas roster, with CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, Jalen Tolbert, KaVonte Turpin and Ryan Flournoy completing the position. It is a top-heavy group that is completely reliant on Pickens staying content in his role and both star pass catchers staying healthy.
Dallas doesn't have an established run game to lean on or an exciting prospect at any of the skill positions. If the Cowboys are going to return to relevance, it is completely on the shoulders of the team's star receivers and Dak Prescott being able to deliver a consistent ball. For Brooks, this does further the frustration that you couldn't make a roster that lacks depth at the position.
Still, there are going to be practice squad opportunities, whether in Dallas or in a new landing spot. Brooks has enough upside and experience that finding a new team isn't going to be as difficult as it will be for many Dallas cuts. No question, Brooks is a name to keep an eye on as teams race to fill out the practice squad and make final moves.