Despite being one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL last season, the Dallas Cowboys shied away from making big splashes in the offseason. They made a controversial coaching hire in Brian Schottenheimer and largely chose to stand pat.
It wouldn't be a Cowboys offseason if the team didn't lose key contributors in free agency. DeMarcus Lawrence, Jourdan Lewis, and Chauncey Golston left while the team brought back former Cowboys defender Dante Fowler Jr. It looks like he won't be the only former Cowboy making a return to Dallas for next season.
The Athletic's Jon Machota reported on Tuesday that Stephon Gilmore is back in the Cowboys building. When asked about it, team executive vice president Stephen Jones all but confirmed their interest in bringing back the veteran cornerback.
Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones when asked about Stephon Gilmore being in the building: “We’re always looking to make our roster better. … In general, our player acquisition is year round.” https://t.co/iQkPzUap6G
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) April 22, 2025
Stephon Gilmore Could Be Making a Surprise Return to the Cowboys
While refusing to give too many details to the press, Jones said that they are looking to make the roster better and used the term "player acquisition". Responding to a question about Gilmore in that manner suggests that the Cowboys are at least considering re-signing Gilmore.
Gilmore spent the 2023 season in Dallas, stepping up in a big way after Trevon Diggs suffered a season-ending injury. After a solid campaign, the Cowboys surprisingly decided to let him walk. Gilmore signed a one-year deal with the Vikings and was solid for them in his age-34 season.
The former NFL Defensive Player of the Year has aged more gracefully than any defensive back has in recent years. He has been remarkably durable and productive as he enters his mid-30s. The Cowboys made a mistake not retaining him last season, as the team missed his leadership and veteran presence.
Dallas now has an excellent opportunity to correct a past mistake and add a consistent, dependable defender in a position of need.