The Dallas Cowboys are bringing back a familiar face under center, signing quarterback Will Grier to a futures contract for the 2026 season. It’s a move that doesn’t make headlines like a blockbuster trade or a high-profile free-agent signing, but it’s the kind of roster-building decision that can quietly shape a team’s depth chart heading into training camp.
For those unfamiliar, a futures contract is essentially an offseason audition. It gives players a shot to compete during workouts, OTAs, and training camp, with the hope of cracking the 53-man roster come September. In Grier’s case, it’s another opportunity to keep his NFL journey alive - and perhaps carve out a role in a quarterback room that’s always looking for reliable depth.
Grier, now 30, has had one of those NFL careers that’s more winding road than straight line. Drafted 100th overall by the Panthers in 2019 after a strong college run at West Virginia, he entered the league with some intrigue.
But like many mid-round quarterbacks, the transition to the pros proved steep. He was waived by Carolina while still on his rookie deal, which included a $779,281 signing bonus.
The Cowboys were the next team to take a look, claiming Grier and keeping him around through the end of that season. He didn’t stick on the active roster right away - waived after the 2022 preseason - but Dallas kept him close, re-signing him to the practice squad and eventually promoting him later that year. It was a sign that the coaching staff saw something worth developing, even if he wasn’t ready for game-day action.
Grier’s NFL journey didn’t stop there. He was released again in 2023 as part of final roster cuts, then bounced around several teams' practice squads - including stints with the Bengals, Patriots, and Chargers. Though he never saw the field with those teams, he remained in the league, which says something about how teams view his skill set and professionalism.
Most recently, Grier signed a one-year deal with the Eagles before landing back in Dallas on the practice squad. Now, with this futures deal, he’ll get another shot to prove himself in a system he already knows.
As for his on-field résumé, Grier’s only real NFL action came back in 2019 with the Panthers, where he started two games. The numbers weren’t pretty - 28 completions on 52 attempts for 228 yards, no touchdowns, and four interceptions.
He also added 22 yards on the ground. But those starts came in a tough situation, and he hasn’t had another chance to show growth since.
For the Cowboys, this is a no-risk move. Grier brings experience, familiarity with the playbook, and a veteran presence to the quarterback room. Whether he’s competing for a backup role or simply providing a steady hand during camp, his return gives Dallas another option as they evaluate their depth behind the starter.
It’s not the kind of signing that will dominate headlines, but in a league where quarterback depth can make or break a season, every arm matters - especially one that already knows the building.