Cut Candidates for the Dallas Cowboys Entering the 2026 Season
The Dallas Cowboys finished their second preseason game in Arizona, beating the Cardinals in a dominating fashion, 34-13, where players once again began to show their strides. Joe Milton had a fantastic performance as the starter, recording three total and having a passer rating of 142.9. Michigan rookie Jaishawn Barham had a great performance in his first game wearing the star on his helmet, getting into the backfield on numerous occasions. Several players have played well enough to give the Cowboys a reason to play them during the regular season, something not every player can say. With only one preseason game remaining, which players are potential cut candidates entering the 2026 season?
Marquez Valdes-Scantling
When the Cowboys signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling earlier this offseason, questions arose about why Dallas would even sign him, and to be fair, those questions were not wrong. Valdes-Scantling, 31, is nearing the end of his playing career, having played for various teams since entering the NFL. He was a healthy scratch in Dallas's preseason opener against the Seahawks and had not seen much action in their previous game against Arizona. The depth of receivers on the roster also does not help his case for making the team. Valdes-Scantling will likely play his regular season ball on a different team because Camden Brown, another gem that Dallas found at wide receiver, and Jonathan Mingo are probably going to get the final few spots.
Marist Liufau
The former linebacker for the Fighting Irish, Marist Liufau, is another player who could potentially see his way out of Dallas in 2026. With Christian Parker changing up the identity and scheme of the defense, his role from linebacker to edge rusher will make it difficult for him to be an impactful player. Dallas's recent acquisition of former Super Bowl MVP Von Miller lessens his chances of remaining on the team, especially since pass rushing is not his strong suit. Additionally, Dallas is still in search of another pass rusher. A significant factor that may increase his likelihood of being cut is how relatively little it will cost Dallas to release him. Liufau remains under contract as a rookie, but Dallas could opt to pay a small fee of $5.6 million to cut him and bring in a more profound pass rusher.
