One of the most important 2026 Dallas Cowboys players may not even be on the roster yet, and why that could be a mistake
The Dallas Cowboys’ linebacker situation remains somewhat of a mystery even after mandatory minicamp. And one insider’s reckless theory brings up an interesting scenario.
A quick glance at the NFL free agency market makes one thing very clear: There are plenty of dominoes yet to fall before the start of the regular season. And it would make sense for the Dallas Cowboys to get involved in the action sooner or later.
If they do, it could mean one of the most important players on their defense isn’t on the roster yet. That’s because one of the biggest mysteries surrounding the Cowboys defense going into training camp remains who will play middle linebacker.
Right now, DeMarvion Overshown appears to be the favorite. That alone brings serious questions about the position, as it is a role that Overshown has not manned yet. Some would argue it’s not the role he’s best suited for. Veteran Dee Winters has also been more of a run-and-hit linebacker than a MIKE. And I doubt the team is going to bet on an unproven young player like Shemar James or third-round rookie Jaishawn Barham.
So what if the Cowboys are targeting someone else? Someone not on the roster?
Cowboys insider speculates on MIKE signing
Props to Cowboys insider Nick Harris (Fort Worth-Star Telegram) who recently shared a “reckless theory” about the middle linebacker spot in Dallas.
“I have a reckless theory that they’re going to sign a MIKE after training camp and they already have it in place,” Harris said on the Haymaker Network. “It could be Wagner […] He is 38, maybe he’s like don’t call me until Aug. 20.”
Harris alluded to Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer teasing the media about knowing who would be the green dot defender back in rookie minicamp. He added Winters was discussed as an option in that press conference but didn’t really get reps there through OTAs and minicamp.
“Are they just training the backup MIKE right now?” Harris speculated. “I don’t know, it’s just my reckless theory.”
Harris’ theory makes sense but…
Harris is one of the most knowledgeable insiders covering the Cowboys today. And his logic is solid, so you can consider me a buyer of his theory here. But also, there’s something I don’t like about it.
One of the biggest things driving the hype behind the new Christian Parker defense is players appear to be locked in. Communication appears to be at an all-time high, which is crucial for a Vic Fangio style defense. Schottenheimer recently revealed there’s a line of players waiting outside Parker’s door every day. In a behind-the-scenes video, Parker is telling his green dot player to “overcommunicate” multiple times.
Is it really a good idea to bring in a middle linebacker after training camp? It sure feels like that would go against everything Parker and Co. have been building. To be fair, someone like Wagner (whose experience is off the charts) is expected to digest whichever scheme he signs up for in no time.
But I worry about such an addition messing with the chemistry the Cowboys are building. Additionally, if it ends up being Wagner, I question if his recent struggles in coverage keep him off the field in passing downs.
If the Cowboys, however, sign a veteran like Wagner for the purpose of added depth, I’m fine with it. But bringing in someone after camp to be the middle linebacker? I don’t love it.