Unfortunately, it is only a coincidence that the Dallas Cowboys were busy reshuffling their roster on the same day the NFL's best remaining free agent found a new home.
Star cornerback Jaire Alexander signed with the Ravens on Wednesday. In fitting Jerry Jones fashion, the Cowboys countered by signing CB Robert Rochell, who's played 27 defensive snaps the last three years combined since his rookie season in 2021.
It turns out, signing Rochell was the first in a flurry of Dallas transactions. They also signed defensive tackle Perrion Winfrey. In corresponding moves, the team released 2024 seventh-round pick Justin Rogers and cornerback Luq Barcoo, per an official announcement.
Cowboys quietly move on from 2024 draft pick Justin Rogers after minicamp
Rogers was in the midst of his second stint with the Cowboys. He failed to make the 53-man roster last summer and shockingly was not signed to the practice squad. The Bengals swiftly added him to their practice squad, but he never appeared in a game.
Dallas returned the favor and poached Rogers of Cincinnati's practice squad before their Week 16 game against the Buccaneers.
Many fans were disgruntled when the Cowboys let Rogers go initially. He was seen as a worthwhile development DT. The front office decided instead to trade for veteran Jordan Phillips and that completely blew up in their face. Phillips was off the team before Week 10.
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The Cowboys could certainly use Rogers' girth in the middle of their defense, but he clearly hasn't showed the necessary development. It speaks volumes that two different coaching staff's have both washed their hands of the former Auburn standout.
Perhaps Matt Eberflus and Co. think Winfrey, the 2022 Senior Bowl MVP, can assert himself in a thin nose tackle rotation behind Mazi Smith.
If nothing else, though, these flurry of moves are the latest indicator that Dallas needs to add an experienced DT to the roster at some point during training camp.