The Dallas Cowboys have made a significant cap-clearing move in the 2026 offseason, releasing veteran linebacker Logan Wilson just months after acquiring him in a trade from the Cincinnati Bengals before the 2025 deadline.
The decision, first reported on X on February 20, 2026, frees up $6.5 million in salary cap space for a team projected to be over the cap heading into free agency.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones talks before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones talks before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Dallas Cowboys Release Veteran LB Logan Wilson: Saves $6.5M in Cap Space After Trade Acquisition
Wilson, 29, appeared in 7 games with the Cowboys in 2025 after the trade, recording 24 tackles (including 15 solo) and contributing primarily on special teams and in rotational defensive snaps. He brought veteran leadership and run-stopping ability to a linebacker corps that struggled with consistency last season.
Why the Cowboys Released Logan Wilson
Dallas acquired Wilson to bolster their linebacker depth amid injuries and performance issues in 2025. However, with the team facing cap constraints and a need to prioritize extensions (e.g., for stars like Dak Prescott, George Pickens, and CeeDee Lamb), releasing Wilson provides immediate relief. His cap hit was set to rise in 2026 under the terms of his previous Bengals contract, making the move a strategic cost-cutting decision.
Logan Wilson’s Career and Time in Dallas
Jan 4, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Logan Wilson (55) breaks up a pass intended for New York Giants running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (29) during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jan 4, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Logan Wilson (55) breaks up a pass intended for New York Giants running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (29) during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
A third-round pick (No. 65 overall) by the Bengals in 2020 out of Wyoming, Wilson was a Pro Bowl alternate in 2022 and a key piece of Cincinnati’s defense during their 2021 Super Bowl run. In Dallas, he provided depth but didn’t emerge as a full-time starter, playing behind the core group.
The release ends a short, transitional stint in Arlington. Wilson now becomes an unrestricted free agent and could attract interest from teams needing veteran linebacker help (e.g., contenders or teams with injuries).
Cowboys Offseason Cap Crunch and Implications
Dallas enters the 2026 offseason over the cap by a significant margin (estimates around $20–30M+), forcing tough decisions:
Potential franchise tag on WR George Pickens (or trade rumors).
Extensions or restructures for key players.
Free agent targets to address defense and depth.
Releasing Wilson is a small but meaningful step toward flexibility. Fans on social media reacted with a mix of understanding (“Cap relief was needed”) and disappointment (“Solid vet, hoped he’d stick around”).
Cowboys Nation: Smart cap move or loss of valuable depth? Where do you see Logan Wilson landing next? Drop your thoughts below—this offseason is full of tough calls for Dallas!
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