Amid the anticipated spending surge, one notable free-agent target has emerged: Demario Davis, the 37-year-old Saints linebacker. Analysts view Davis as a veteran presence who could immediately address the Cowboys’ run-stopping and short-yardage efficiency, particularly on first and second downs where improved linebacker play is needed.
Davis posted a productive 2025 season, appearing in all 17 games with 143 total tackles, and a proven track record across a 14-year NFL career. While his age means he would not be a long-term solution, proponents argue he could serve as a high-impact, short-term upgrade that helps Dallas raise its floor in 2026 and potentially shape the defense for the subsequent season.
Market projections estimate a contract near $9.5 million annually for Davis, reflecting his value as a stabilizing force capable of elevating the defense’s efficiency in critical situations. Given Dallas’s goal to maximize its competitive window, Davis could fit as a cost-controlled, high-impact addition rather than a multi-year centerpiece.
Ultimately, the Cowboys’ decision will hinge on whether they prioritize a rapid defensive lift for 2026 or pursue longer-term options to sustain success. If owner Jones commits to a bold one-year-plus plan to reinforce the defense, Davis represents a plausible and potentially game-changing target to consider once free agency opens.
