The Cowboys are shaking things up in free agency, and their latest moves are turning heads. With the legal tampering period underway, Dallas is making strategic plays to bolster their roster.
One of the standout moves is trading for Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers, giving up a fourth-round pick in the 2027 draft. This follows the renegotiation of Terence Steele’s contract, setting the stage for an impactful offseason.
But the Cowboys didn't stop there. They addressed a critical need in their secondary by signing Jalen Thompson to a three-year, $36 million deal.
This move not only fills a glaring gap but also aligns with new defensive coordinator Christian Parker's vision for the defense. So, what does Jalen Thompson bring to the table for Dallas?
Jalen Thompson: A Closer Look
Thompson's journey to the NFL wasn't the traditional path. Starting as a freshman at Washington State, he made an immediate impact with 57 tackles and led his team with seven pass breakups, earning freshman All-American honors. Over the next two seasons, he amassed 140 tackles and six interceptions, showcasing his growth and skill.
In 2019, after being declared ineligible by the NCAA, Thompson entered the supplemental draft and was picked up by Arizona. He quickly became a key player in their defense, and his skill set is now heading to Dallas.
What Thompson Brings
Thompson is a tackling machine, consistently averaging over 100 tackles per season for the past five years. His tackling precision is notable, with a missed tackle rate as low as 3.5% in 2022. Durability is another strength, having played in 79 out of 85 possible regular-season games.
Versatility is a hallmark of Thompson’s game. He excels in zone coverage and has a knack for breaking up passes or forcing turnovers, evidenced by his 37 career passes defended. Whether it's playing free or strong safety, or stepping into the box to support the run, Thompson is up for the task.
With a background as a cornerback, Thompson can also cover quicker slot receivers, providing the Cowboys with a flexible option they’ve been seeking.
Areas for Improvement
While Thompson is often in the right spot to make plays, his interception numbers haven’t been high, with a career-best of four in a season and none in the last two years. As a pass rusher, his impact is limited, having blitzed 60 times with just two sacks to show for it. He can pressure the quarterback but rarely finishes the play.
Physically, Thompson may not have the elite size or speed to rank among the NFL's top safeties. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 190 lbs., his raw traits don't scream "splash plays." However, his intelligence and tackling prowess provide Dallas with a significant upgrade from last year’s safety situation.
In essence, the Cowboys are adding a reliable, versatile defender in Jalen Thompson, one who fits well into their evolving defensive scheme. With these strategic moves, Dallas is setting the stage for a promising season, and fans have plenty to be excited about.