"Malik Hooker - With nearly $7 million in potential cap savings if he's released, and turning 30 in April, Hooker has the makings of a cap casualty. But he's also the only safety with ample experience, as more of Markquese Bell's defensive snaps have been at linebacker than in the secondary. Hooker is a respected veteran with the skills to fit most schemes, so they won't part with him lightly even for the relief."
"Markquese Bell - While he doesn't have enough of a résumé to inherit a starting job, Bell could at least compete for it. The Cowboys thought enough of Bell to give him a three-year deal last offseason, and his versatility between LB and S helps him stay valuable despite scheme changes. At the very least, he should stick around for depth and special teams, especially since there's no cap benefit to cutting him."
"Alijah Clark - As an undrafted rookie, Clark appeared in 11 games mostly as a special teamer. He had one of the best highlights of 2025 with his forced fumble against the Eagles in Dallas' dramatic comeback win, fighting through blocks and knockdowns to still get to the ball. He should be competitive for a depth spot."
The Dallas Cowboys must address their safety position as two key players enter free agency. Malik Hooker, a respected veteran turning 30, could become a cap casualty despite his experience, though a reworked deal may keep him. Markquese Bell, versatile between linebacker and safety, should remain for depth and special teams value. Undrafted rookies Alijah Clark and Julius Wood compete for roster spots, with Clark showing promise on special teams and in limited action. The Cowboys' historical tendency to undervalue the safety position raises concerns about whether they will adequately invest in upgrading the secondary through free agency or the draft.
Read at Blogging The Boys
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