Cowboys Trade for Dee Winters, Boosting Linebacker Corps

On April 30, Dallas Cowboys just made a slick move at linebacker, trading a 5th round pick to snag D-Winters from the San Francisco 49ers.

Jerry Jones admits they still need to build that room heading into the 2026 season, and this trade fills a gap after passing on.

First round options.

Winters, a 25-year-old Texas native drafted in the 6th round back in 2023, broke out big last year with 101.

Tackles and one pick. He started on special teams but stepped up huge when injuries hit San Francisco's defense.

Team leaders on both sides showed respect. 49ers GM John Lynch called him a locker room favorite who earned his spot while Winters was.

Straight up shocked but pumped to return home. Now he joins a group with the Marbian overshown and others for some needed depth.

Under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, Dallas is switching to a 3-4 scheme and Winters is all in, even if it means learning the.

Mikey Rull with the Green Dot. He thrived in space as a will back west but he's ready to grind film and call plays.

Expectations are rising for Winters in his final rookie contract year.

Hives embracing the challenge, brings speed and physicality to help turn around. That defense after a rough 2025.