Dallas Cowboys Face Tough Choice on Veteran Safety Donovan Wilson in Free Agency

The Dallas Cowboys face major defensive decisions this offseason. Veteran safety Donovan Wilson is headed for free agency. His future with the team is now in serious doubt.

This comes as the Cowboys aim to retool their defense for future success. According to ESPN, Wilson’s age and contract status make a departure likely.

Wilson’s Impressive Tenure in Dallas Nears a Potential End

Donovan Wilson was a sixth-round draft pick in 2019. He quickly became a defensive leader for Dallas. His hard-hitting style defined the Cowboys’ secondary for years.

Wilson has played 92 games for the team. He started 69 of those contests. His career stats include 422 tackles and 13 sacks.

He also forced eight fumbles and grabbed eight interceptions. His versatility as a blitzer was a key asset. That play earned him a three-year extension previously.

Now, that contract is expiring. Wilson will turn 31 years old this offseason. The Cowboys must decide if they want to invest in an older safety.

Cowboys’ Youth Movement Could Reshape Secondary

The team’s other starting safety, Malik Hooker, is also aging. Hooker will be 30 next season. But he is already under contract for the coming year.

This leaves Wilson as the likely odd man out. Dallas has a clear need to get younger on defense. The safety position is a logical place to start that process.

According to team analysts, financial flexibility is another factor. Letting Wilson walk frees up salary cap space. That money could target other needs or younger free agents.

Internal options exist to replace him. Markquese Bell has shown promise in limited snaps. The NFL Draft also offers several talented prospects.

The team’s performance down the stretch may influence the decision. A strong playoff run could change the calculus. But the current trend points toward a separation.

The Cowboys’ approach to Donovan Wilson in free agency will signal their defensive direction. Letting the veteran go would mark the start of a new era in the Dallas secondary.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: How long has Donovan Wilson played for the Cowboys?

Donovan Wilson has spent his entire seven-year NFL career with Dallas. The Cowboys drafted him in the sixth round back in 2019. He has been a starter for most of that time.

Q2: Who would replace Wilson if he leaves?

The Cowboys may turn to younger players already on the roster. Markquese Bell is a leading candidate for more playing time. The team could also draft a safety or sign a cheaper veteran in free agency.

Q3: What are Wilson’s main career stats?

Over seven seasons, Wilson recorded 422 total tackles. He also added 13 sacks and eight interceptions. His ability to blitz from the safety spot was particularly valuable.

Q4: Why would the Cowboys let Wilson go?

The primary reasons are age and financial planning. Wilson turns 31 soon, and the team wants to get younger. Investing in a new, cost-controlled player is often a smarter long-term strategy.

Q5: Is Malik Hooker also a free agent?

No, Malik Hooker is not a free agent this offseason. He is already under contract with the Cowboys for the 2025 season. This makes Wilson the more likely safety to depart.

Q6: When does NFL free agency officially begin?

The 2025 NFL league year and free agency period begins in mid-March. Teams can start negotiating with pending free agents a few days prior. Wilson will be eligible to sign with any team at that time.