The Dallas Cowboys made a notable move in free agency by signing former Arizona Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson. Thompson inked a three-year deal that could reach up to $36 million with incentives, marking the richest external free agent signing in the team's history. While he might not be a household name yet, Thompson brings a valuable versatility to the Cowboys' defense, having played both safety positions and nickel cornerback-a skill set he takes great pride in.
Thompson expressed his readiness to contribute wherever needed, stating, “I definitely see myself playing in the slot, deep safety, strong, free-wherever they need me. My film shows it. I’m ready to get it going.”
Leaving the Cardinals, the only NFL team he had known, was tough, but Thompson felt an immediate connection with the Cowboys. “Meeting the coaches at the facility gave that family feel I’ve been missing. Everyone was welcoming, and it went really well,” he shared.
A key factor in his decision was his relationship with new secondary coach Ryan Smith, who he worked with in Arizona for three seasons. “He’s definitely a players’ coach and knows how to coach really well. Having him here made the decision easier for me,” Thompson noted.
With Smith and defensive coordinator Christian Parker on board, Thompson is optimistic about the Cowboys' defensive prospects. “I feel like we have all the right pieces.
[Christian Parker] puts players in the right places. Players under him have been All-Pros.
He brings versatility to the defense.”
Thompson is eager to help redefine the Cowboys' defense, which struggled last season. “We’re ready to go.
I’m excited to meet the guys and create our identity this year. We have to show it’s not the same defense as last year.”