The Dallas Cowboys are undergoing significant changes to their defense as they prepare for the 2026 season. Under new coordinator Christian Parker, the team aims to improve from last year's performance, which ranked them as the worst defense in the NFL, allowing 511 points.
The safety position has seen considerable changes, with Malik Hooker and Markquese Bell being the only players returning from last season. The Cowboys have made substantial investments in this area, including the signing of Jalen Thompson, their most costly free agent in over ten years.
They have also brought in PJ Locke, who has previous experience with Parker, and drafted Caleb Downs with the 11th overall pick, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing the safety group.
Markquese Bell's future with the team is in question, particularly following his April arrest on charges related to controlled substances and marijuana. His status became more uncertain after he was a healthy scratch in a recent preseason game against the Cardinals.
Sports commentator Zach Wolchuk suggested that Bell's absence might indicate he is secure in his position, but the Cowboys are still faced with challenging decisions about their safety roster.