Top Linebacker Free Agent Options for the Cowboys in the 2026 Offseason
With NFL free agency approaching, the Cowboys are aiming to improve for the 2026 season. They will likely look to focus their attention on fixing the defensive side of the ball, which was ranked last in several categories throughout the NFL last season. Dallas struggled with their defense, but at linebacker, it could not pull it together. Week after week, there was a glaring problem with their play, and it has become an area of need going into the draft and free agency. With new defensive coordinator Christian Parker bringing an entirely new defense and defensive staff, who are some of the free agent linebackers that can help the Cowboys' defense become respectable again?
Quay Walker
Quay Walker, who played for the Bulldogs in college and was drafted by the Packers in 2022, has served as a reliable linebacker in Green Bay. However, his time with the Packers seems to be ending, following their recent trade for Zaire Franklin from the Colts to fill Walker's position. Although the Packers reportedly tried to keep Walker, he chose to test free agency instead of negotiating a new deal. Dallas presents Walker with an opportunity to join a younger team and new staff under Parker, where he could help lead the defense and be a key contributor to a potential turnaround for the Cowboys.
Alex Singleton
The Cowboys' player-targeting strategy this free agency is shaped by Parker's former connections, and Alex Singleton is no different. Being one of the key parts of a Broncos defense that was recognized as one of the best in the NFL, Singleton gained a lot of respect; he may have had no bad plays last season, and if he did, they were difficult to come by. Despite being 32 years old, he is far from being done playing in the NFL, and his veteran presence can help a Dallas defense and linebacking group that is both young and undisciplined. Another benefit for Singleton is that he would be joining a scheme that is familiar to him, with Parker modeling his play-calling and 3-4 formation after Vic Fangio and Vance Joseph, two coaches who coached and currently coach him.
