The Cowboys have signed their final exclusive free agent, DE Tyrus Wheat, to a contract that they have never seen before

A Key Move to Bolster the Defense
The Dallas Cowboys have officially signed defensive end Tyrus Wheat to his exclusive rights free agent (ERFA) tender, securing him for the upcoming season. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Wheat will earn $1.03 million in 2025, marking a strategic move by the Cowboys to maintain depth and potential on their defensive front.

Tyrus Wheat’s Journey to the Cowboys
Wheat’s path to the NFL has been one of determination and hard work. After going undrafted in 2023, he was picked up by the Cowboys and quickly proved his worth. Known for his physicality, versatility, and relentless motor, Wheat made an impression in training camp and fought his way onto the roster.

Though he saw limited action in his rookie season, his potential was evident. Coaches praised his ability to disrupt plays and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks, making him a valuable rotational piece in Dallas’ defensive scheme.

Why the Cowboys Wanted to Keep Wheat
Re-signing Wheat was a logical decision for the Cowboys, who are focused on maintaining a strong defensive unit. Dallas has built one of the most aggressive defenses in the NFL under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, and keeping promising young players like Wheat ensures continued growth and depth.

At 6-foot-2 and 260 pounds, Wheat possesses the physical tools needed to thrive in the Cowboys’ system. His explosiveness off the edge, combined with his ability to set the edge against the run, makes him a valuable asset. With another offseason to develop, he has the opportunity to carve out a more significant role in the defensive rotation.

What This Means for the Cowboys’ Defense
The Cowboys have one of the most feared pass-rushing units in the league, led by stars like Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence. With Wheat returning, Dallas retains a promising young player who can contribute in key situations.

Wheat’s presence provides insurance in case of injuries and allows the coaching staff to rotate their pass rushers more effectively. If he continues to develop, he could see an expanded role, particularly in specialized defensive packages designed to pressure the quarterback.

A Low-Risk, High-Reward Signing
Signing Wheat to his ERFA tender is a smart, low-risk move for the Cowboys. At just over $1 million for the season, he remains an affordable option with significant upside. If he continues to progress, the Cowboys could explore a longer-term deal in the future.

For now, Wheat has another opportunity to prove himself in training camp and preseason action. With the right development, he could become a key contributor to a Cowboys defense that aims to dominate in 2025.

Looking Ahead
With this signing, the Cowboys have now completed their exclusive rights free agent transactions, ensuring that key depth players remain in place. As Dallas prepares for the new season, all eyes will be on Wheat to see how he capitalizes on this opportunity. If he continues his upward trajectory, he could be a name to watch in the Cowboys’ defensive plans moving forward.