FRISCO, TEXAS — The Dallas Cowboys traded linebacker Micah Parsons before the 2026 NFL season, ending his tenure with the team. The move followed a 2025 season in which Dallas finished with the worst scoring defense in the league.

To reshape the defensive front for 2026, the Cowboys signed edge rusher Rashan Gary. The team will deploy its retooled unit under defensive coordinator Christian Parker. Gary's addition gives Parker a new edge presence to build around as the Cowboys look to improve on their 2025 defensive ranking.

The departure of Parsons continued a turnover among the team's pass rushers that began the previous year. DeMarcus Lawrence signed with the Seattle Seahawks before the 2025 season, leaving Dallas without one of its longtime defensive linemen.

The Cowboys added Jadeveon Clowney after the 2025 season had already begun. Clowney went on to lead the team in sacks during that season. Despite Clowney's production, Dallas still finished last in the NFL in points allowed in 2025.

With Parsons no longer on the roster, Gary joining the defense, and Parker serving as defensive coordinator, the Cowboys enter the 2026 season with a reshaped edge group following consecutive years of roster change at the position.