Undrafted free agents are a crucial part of roster building in the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys wasted no time agreeing to terms with several UDFAs following the 2025 NFL Draft. Former Oregon wideout Traeshon Holden is one of the most notable players in the Cowboys' batch of UDFAs after a productive senior season.
Holden caught 45 passes for 718 yards and was a key producer for an Oregon offense that excelled during the college football season. While his top-end speed is nothing to get exciting about, his ability to play inside and outside with his six-two frame make for a compelling UDFA who theoretically should have a chance at a thin position group.
However, it doesn't look like the Cowboys are preparing to give Holden a roster spot. In perhaps the most backhanded way possible, Dallas showed Holden exactly where he stands by giving him the same number as one of the most beloved players on the roster: Trevon Diggs.
Cowboys show Traeshon Holden he has a slim chance of making the roster
Shared numbers are common during training camp and the preseason so there is no need to worry about Diggs' future with the Cowboys. Dallas giving his No. 7 to a UDFA to share means nothing about Diggs' future.
However, it is worth noting that players who typically get shared numbers don't make the roster most times. Of course, Holden would change his number if he actually made the roster, but it's pretty telling how the Cowboys feel about him if they are giving him the same number as a fan favorite.
There is always room for Holden to put together an excellent camp and preseason to earn a backend roster spot. By giving him Diggs' number, though, Dallas is saying the quiet part out loud that the team doesn't believe he will actually do so.
It's worth noting that not every Cowboys UDFA is sharing a number with an established player on the roster. Cornerback Bruce Harmon is wearing No. 36, safety Mike Smith is wearing No. 39, tight end Rivaldo Fairweather is wearing No. 45, tight end Tyler Neville is wearing No. 46, cornerback Zion Childress is wearing No. 48 and linebacker Justin Barron is wearing No. 55.
The only other UDFA who is sharing a number is wide receiver Joshua Kelly, who is wearing Markquese Bell's No. 14.
Seems like the Cowboys may not believe in their UDFA wide receivers very much even though it's the position the team needs the most help in.