Jalen Tolbert’s Diminishing Role Raises Questions About His Cowboys Future

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Tolbert is seeing his role evaporate. The 2022 third-round pick was a healthy scratch in Week 13. His playing time has plummeted since midseason.

This development casts serious doubt on his future with the team. Tolbert is in the final year of his rookie contract. The Cowboys appear ready to move on.

From Contributor to Afterthought in 2025 Season

Tolbert’s snap count tells the story. Since Week 8, he has been on the field for just 19 percent of offensive snaps. He received only three targets in that span.

His recent benching against Philadelphia was his first as a healthy scratch since his rookie year. According to team performance metrics, his 44.0% receiving success rate is a career low. The numbers confirm a steep decline.

The Cowboys’ receiver room is now crowded. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens are the established stars. Rookie Ryan Flournoy has emerged as a reliable third option.

A Seemingly Inevitable Offseason Departure Looms

The team’s long-term plans seem clear. Dallas views Pickens as Lamb’s long-term partner. They are reportedly willing to pay him a major extension.

This leaves little room for Tolbert. His path to significant snaps is effectively blocked. An unceremonious split now feels inevitable.

Tolbert showed promise in 2024, setting career highs. The NFL landscape changes rapidly, however. His regression in 2025 has made him expendable.

Jalen Tolbert’s time with the Dallas Cowboys is running out. His diminished role signals the end is near for his tenure in Dallas. The upcoming offseason will likely see him seeking a fresh start elsewhere.

Thought you’d like to know

Why is Jalen Tolbert not playing for the Cowboys?

His playing time has drastically fallen due to increased competition. The emergence of Ryan Flournoy and the established roles of Lamb and Pickens have pushed him down the depth chart, making him a healthy scratch recently.

Will the Cowboys re-sign Jalen Tolbert?

It appears very unlikely. He is in the final year of his deal and his role has diminished. The team’s investment in other receivers suggests they are prepared to let him leave in free agency.

What were Jalen Tolbert’s stats in 2025?

Through 11 games, he has 14 catches for 172 yards and one touchdown. His playing time and production have significantly decreased compared to his 2024 career-best season.

Who replaced Jalen Tolbert on the Cowboys?

Rookie Ryan Flournoy has effectively taken over as the team’s third wide receiver. This, alongside the top roles of Lamb and Pickens, has marginalized Tolbert’s position in the offense.

Is Jalen Tolbert a free agent in 2026?

Yes. Tolbert is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins in March 2026, allowing him to sign with any team.