The Dallas Cowboys took an unexpected step in their offseason roster changes by releasing linebacker Logan Wilson on Friday. This decision frees $6.5 million in salary cap space, signaling an early adjustment in the team’s lineup as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. Wilson, 29, had been acquired mid-season from the Cincinnati Bengals but will now enter free agency. This move reflects the organization’s intent to reshape its defensive unit after a disappointing 7-9-1 finish last season.
Wilson’s Role and Performance with the Cowboys and Bengals
Logan Wilson appeared in seven games for Dallas, mostly serving as a backup and starting only once, contrasting with his consistent starting role during his time with the Bengals. Over his six-year NFL career, Wilson has built a reputation as a reliable coverage linebacker, accumulating tackles and impacting defensive plays. During the 2025 season, he recorded 70 total tackles, five pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery, though it was the first year since 2020 that he did not reach 100 combined tackles. His role in Dallas was more limited, reflecting a different defensive strategy compared to Cincinnati’s use of his skills.
Financial Impact and Strategic Implications for the Cowboys
According to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team, Dallas will gain significant cap relief from Wilson’s release. This financial flexibility is crucial as the Cowboys aim to strengthen their defense, which was a weak point during the previous season despite having one of the league’s best offenses. The organization appears poised to prioritize defensive improvements while aiming to preserve offensive consistency heading into the 2026 campaign, underscoring the significance of this roster move.
Wilson’s Next Steps and Free Agency Outlook
As a free agent, Logan Wilson will have opportunities to sign with other NFL teams looking to bolster their linebacker corps. His experience and coverage ability make him a valuable asset, particularly for franchises seeking to improve their pass defense. Observers will be watching to see which teams express interest in adding the veteran linebacker during the offseason.
Just in: The Cowboys are releasing veteran LB Logan Wilson. Wilson, acquired in a trade from Cincinnati before the deadline, appeared in 7 games with the Cowboys and had 24 tackles. Dallas saves $6.5M in cap space.
– Ari Meirov, NFL Analyst
Just in: The #Cowboys are releasing veteran LB Logan Wilson.
Wilson, acquired in a trade from Cincinnati before the deadline, appeared in 7 games with the Cowboys and had 24 tackles. Dallas saves $6.5M in cap space. pic.twitter.com/pZgOPuccVo
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) February 20, 2026
