Jalen Tolbert’s Future with Cowboys in Doubt as Roster Shuffle Intensifies

The Dallas Cowboys are making a tough choice at wide receiver. Jalen Tolbert’s role has vanished in recent weeks. The 2022 third-round pick was a healthy scratch for a key game against Philadelphia.

This decision signals a major shift in the team’s plans. According to NFL Network, Tolbert has seen his offensive snaps plummet below 20% since Week 8. The emergence of other talents has pushed him down the depth chart.

Tolbert’s Snap Count Tells the Story of a Fading Role

Since the middle of the season, Tolbert’s presence has been minimal. He has been on the field for just 19 percent of offensive plays in that span. He has drawn only three targets during that time, showing he is no longer part of the game plan.

His career-high production from 2024 is now a distant memory. ESPN notes his receiving success rate this year is his lowest since entering the league. Through 11 games, he has just 14 catches for 172 yards and one touchdown.

Increased Competition Makes Tolbert Expendable for 2026

The Cowboys’ receiver room is crowded with priority players. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens form one of the league’s top duos. Rookie Ryan Flournoy has also carved out a significant role as the third option.

This leaves little room for Tolbert, who is in his contract year. The team appears ready to move on when he hits free agency this offseason. His time in Dallas is likely ending as the franchise builds around its new core.

Jalen Tolbert’s future with the Cowboys now looks bleak. The team’s actions show they are prepared to let the receiver walk in free agency. His departure would mark the end of a draft pick that never found consistent footing in Dallas.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why was Jalen Tolbert a healthy scratch?

The Cowboys made him inactive due to his diminished role. The team favored other receivers for special teams and offensive snaps. It was a clear sign he had fallen out of the weekly game plan.

Who is taking Tolbert’s snaps?

Rookie Ryan Flournoy has emerged as the primary third receiver. All-Pro return man KaVontae Turpin also gets more offensive work. The top targets, Lamb and Pickens, command the majority of plays.

What were Tolbert’s stats in 2024?

He set career highs last season as the number two option. He caught 44 passes for over 600 yards. That performance now seems like an outlier in his career trajectory.

Is Tolbert a free agent soon?

Yes, his rookie contract expires after this season. He will be an unrestricted free agent in the 2026 offseason. The Cowboys are not expected to make a serious effort to re-sign him.

Could the Cowboys trade Tolbert?

A mid-season trade is unlikely due to his limited recent production. His value is at its lowest point right now. The team will probably let his contract expire naturally.