Cowboys Facing Tough Roster Decisions: Fowler, Mukuamu, Stephens Jr. on the Bubble

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  Published in Business and Finance on Tuesday, March 24th 2026 at 15:33 GMT by Sports Illustrated
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Dante Fowler Jr.: A Cap Casualty?

The most discussed potential cut, Dante Fowler Jr., arrived in Dallas with high expectations, brought in to bolster the pass rush. However, his tenure has been underwhelming. While flashes of his former self occasionally appear, consistent pressure hasn't materialized, especially considering his $11 million salary cap hit. In the modern NFL, value is paramount, and the Cowboys' front office, known for its shrewd financial management, will likely deem that price tag unsustainable for a rotational pass rusher. The emergence of younger, cheaper edge rushers - and the potential to address the position in the upcoming draft - further solidifies Fowler's precarious position. A trade remains a possibility, but given his performance, the Cowboys might only receive a late-round pick in return, making a simple release the more likely outcome. The Cowboys are also facing increasing pressure to invest in extending key players like CeeDee Lamb, and freeing up the $11 million from Fowler's contract could be vital.

Israel Mukuamu: Crowded Safety Room and Diminishing Returns

Israel Mukuamu's situation is different. He's been given opportunities, but hasn't been able to cement his place as a consistent contributor. The Cowboys' safety depth chart is becoming increasingly competitive. With veterans and promising young prospects already established, Mukuamu faces an uphill battle to earn a roster spot. While his athleticism is notable, a lack of consistent playmaking ability and struggles in coverage have hindered his development. The Cowboys' defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer (assuming he remains at the helm), prioritizes sure tackling and reliable coverage, areas where Mukuamu has yet to consistently excel. The team may look to utilize the draft or free agency to add another dynamic safety, effectively pushing Mukuamu off the roster.

John Stephens Jr.: The Long Shot in a Talented Receiving Corps

John Stephens Jr., a journeyman receiver, embodies the reality that not every player gets a long-term opportunity in the NFL. While he possesses intriguing potential, the Cowboys already boast a robust receiving group headlined by CeeDee Lamb and the rising star, Jalen Tolbert. The competition for the remaining receiver spots will be fierce, with several other players - including undrafted free agents and mid-round draft picks - vying for a chance. Stephens Jr.'s experience is valuable, but in a league that increasingly values speed and specialized roles, he may simply lack the skillset to carve out a consistent role in the Cowboys' offensive scheme. He'll likely serve as a valuable practice squad player, providing depth and experience, but making the final 53 appears a long shot.

Beyond These Three: Potential Ripple Effects

The potential cuts of Fowler, Mukuamu, and Stephens Jr. could trigger further roster moves. The Cowboys might look to address the edge rusher position in the draft, potentially targeting a high-motor player with upside. The safety position could also see reinforcements, either through free agency or a mid-round draft pick. The receiving corps, while seemingly set, always benefits from added depth and competition. These moves will ultimately reflect the Cowboys' strategy to balance veteran leadership with developing young talent. This offseason promises to be a fascinating case study in NFL roster construction, as the Cowboys attempt to build a team capable of making a deep playoff run in 2026.