As the Dallas Cowboys move closer to finalizing their 2026 roster, the competition for the last few spots is becoming increasingly intense. One Cowboys insider, Brandon Loree, has identified 15 players who could be involved in what he described as a “dog fight” for the final three roster spots.
The list includes players competing at several different positions, making the final decisions especially difficult for the coaching staff.
The players identified are quarterback Sam Howell, running back Phil Mafah, wide receiver Jonathan Mingo, tight end Michael Trigg, offensive linemen Nick Leverett, Trevor Keegan and tackle Ajani Cornelius. Other than these players, defensive backs/safety Alijah Clark, Julius Wood, cornerback Reddy Steward, linebackers Tyrus Wheat, Isaiah Land and Shemar James, LB Sam Williams, and defensive tackle Jay Toia are also on the bubble.
Several positions could come down to the wire
Howell is among the most notable names on the list. The veteran quarterback is competing for a roster spot behind Dak Prescott and could face a difficult decision from Dallas if the Cowboys choose to carry fewer quarterbacks.
Mafah, a sophomore running back, is also battling for a place in a crowded position group. His ability to contribute on special teams and make an impact when given offensive opportunities could become important as the Cowboys evaluate their depth.
The wide receiver competition could be just as difficult. Mingo and Trigg are both trying to establish themselves in a room led by CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, with limited roster spots available for the players further down the depth chart.
On defense, Williams is perhaps the biggest name among the players fighting for a spot. The former second-round pick has shown flashes as a pass rusher but faces significant competition on the edge.
The Cowboys also have several young defensive backs and linebackers competing for opportunities. Players such as Clark, Wood, Steward, Wheat, Land and James will need to prove their value on defense and special teams to separate themselves from the competition.
Cowboys have difficult decisions ahead
The final roster decisions will not simply come down to talent. Special teams value, positional versatility, experience and recent training camp performance could all determine who survives the final cuts.
With only a handful of roster spots potentially available, several of these players could have their Cowboys futures decided by the smallest of margins.
And according reporter Loree, this list may not even be complete. That suggests the Cowboys still have plenty of competition to sort through before the final roster is set.
