The Dallas Cowboys' hot start to NFL free agency stalled out after they traded for pass rusher Rashan Gary and signed versatile safety Jalen Thompson. They were in the mix for multiple linebackers, including Nakobe Dean, but missed out seemingly due to money.
Well, Jerry Jones now has something to show for on Day 2 after the team signed veteran safety P.J. Locke to a one-year, $5 million deal, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Locke crossed paths with Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker for three years in Denver. He was a rumored target coming out of the NFL Combine, and it took a little over 24 hours into the legal tampering period for Dallas to land him.
#Broncos FA S PJ Locke is signing with the #Cowboys on a 1-year deal worth $5M, source says. Another safety added in Dallas. pic.twitter.com/LD7vsyqVns
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 10, 2026
The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly signed safety P.J. Locke to a one-year deal
This has Christian Parker written all over it.
A former Texas Longhorn, Locke will allow for even more versatility in the secondary with Thompson. As a full-time starter in 2024, Locke played all over, logging 583 snaps at free safety, 270 in the box, 109 in the slot, and even 11 as an outside cornerback, per Pro Football Focus.
The frenzy has only just begun, but versatility is already the underlying theme of Dallas' recruitment. Even Rashan Gary can execute multiple roles, including dropping into coverage, which Parker is going to ask of his outside linebackers on occasion.
With years of experience in Vic Fangio's scheme, Locke will be a seamless fit. With so many players learning a new system, it only helps to add players who've played it before.