Christian Parker is already getting to work as the new Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator. With his staff assembled, attention now turns to the players.
The Cowboys have already released Logan Wilson just a few months after trading for him. Wilson did not cover himself in glory in Dallas, as lingering injuries appeared to have completely sapped his remaining athleticism.
Based on how dismal this defense was in 2025, very few players on this unit should be considered sacred cows. Some are set to hit the open market anyway, but some are still under contract who could be let go based on what Parker wants for his defense. These are players to look out for.
1. Malik Hooker
There's been a steady drumbeat that the Cowboys' starting safety room will look completely different in 2026. Donovan Wilson is already set to hit free agency, so it is reasonable to believe he will not be back. However, Malik Hooker is still under contract heading into the offseason.
Under Parker, the Cowboys will implement a scheme that utilizes multiple looks. Based on that, he will be looking at players who have good speed and are more versatile. Hooker does not look like he fits in that way.
Hooker excelled under Dan Quinn, but he has not been as productive the last two years under Mike Zimmer and Matt Eberflus. He also missed five games last season due to a toe injury. In the NFL, the "what have you done for me lately" mentality could spell the end of his time in Dallas.
2. Solomon Thomas
Solomon Thomas was looked at as possibly a big contributor going into last season. He was the lone free agent acquisition last offseason who signed for multiple years. However, with the emergence of Osa Odighizuwa and the acquisitions of Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams, Thomas could be viewed as expendable inside the building.
Parker’s scheme will likely lean heavily on the team’s top three defensive tackles. With that room already crowded, Thomas could find himself as the odd man out. The departure of defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, who left for Tennessee, only adds to the uncertainty. With an entirely new staff under Parker, Thomas may not be viewed as an ideal fit.
Thomas appeared in 16 games last season, but he quickly became a forgotten man once Williams arrived. His release would only free up around $3 million in cap room, but based on what else Dallas could be looking to do this offseason, any new money would be welcome.
3. James Houston
James Houston came off the streets last season to become a fixture in this defense. He signed a two-year deal in July and had a productive season with 5.5 sacks. However, Jadeveon Clowney played great, and rookie Donovan Ezeiraku showed improvement throughout the season.
With Parker hailing from the Vic Fangio coaching tree, Parker's edge rushers will likely have to drop in coverage a bit more. Houston might not align with that.
If the team is also serious about bringing back Clowney, releasing Houston could help with that. It would only free up $1.14 million, but that could make all the difference.
With the Cowboys expected to use free agency and the NFL Draft to find EDGEs that align more with Parker's vision, Houston may find himself on the outside looking in.