The Detroit Lions are overhauling their defensive front this offseason, and last week, EDGE Tyrus Wheat was a casualty. Detroit didn't place a tender on Wheat, allowing him to hit unrestricted free agency. On Wednesday, Wheat found a new home. Well, a new, but familiar, home.
Per The Fort Worth Star-Telegram's Nick Harris, the "Cowboys are expected to sign OLB Tyrus Wheat when the new league year opens this afternoon, according to his representation. He’s an ERFA for Detroit, but wasn’t tendered. He was signed as a UDFA in 2023 by Dallas and played in 20 games for the Cowboys. Special teams help added."
After trading for former Green Bay Packers' pass-rusher Rashan Gary and re-signing Sam Williams, Wheat isn't in line for a starting job in Dallas. If anything, Wheat will probably go back to playing special teams for the Cowboys. During his two years in the DFW, Wheat amassed 8 tackles (1 solo), 1.0 tackle for loss, and 0.5 sacks.
Of course, if the opportunity arises, Wheat may be able to handle an expanded role with the Cowboys. In 66 snaps in the Motor City, Wheat graded out with an 82.3 overall grade and an 80.5 pass rush grade on 47 snaps, via Pro Football Focus. Counting stats-wise, Wheat had two sacks and a forced fumble.
Tyrus Wheat Ultimately Wins FA Even Though Lions Split Wasn't Ideal
There was no bad blood between the Lions and Wheat, but the manner in which the split happened was less than ideal for the defender. Detroit clearly didn't even have him on their radar. For Wheat, though, he ended up a winner, back with the team that gave him a shot as an undrafted free agent out of Mississippi State in 2023.
Wheat lost his head coach at Mississippi State, Mike Leach, right after his collegiate career ended. It wasn't an easy road to the NFL for the Amite, La, native. Dallas gave him a chance, then gave him a second opportunity in 2024. While he was one of the final cuts last August, it's clear Jerry Jones and Co. were fond of him, given how quickly he was scooped up in free agency.
Of course, Wheat still needs to prove his merit and earn his role on the team again. He may end up back on the practice squad if he isn't the special-teams weapon he once was. Regardless of that, though, it's doubtful that Wheat would be outright released again before the start of the 2026 season, given how quickly the Lions signed him last summer.
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