The Dallas Cowboys have a new cornerback. The signing of former Ram Derion Kendrick could spell trouble for one of the team's recent draft picks.

NFL insider Tom Pelissero broke the news on X recently, which is a major reason for concern for one particular player. 

“CB Derion Kendrick is signing with the Cowboys on a 1-year deal, per his agent Matt Leist of LAA,” Pelissero reported on Wednesday. Caelen Carson, who signed a $4.27 million contract, now faces more competition for his roster spot.

Kendrick’s presence in the Cowboys poses a threat to Caelen Carson, whose career has been riddled with injuries. The Cowboys picked him in the 5th round in the 2024 draft and offered him a 4-year, $4.27 million contract. 

But the 24-year-old has dealt with health issues that have kept him off the field. In his rookie season, Carson was limited because of hamstring and shoulder injuries. He played six games only before undergoing surgery.

And in the following year, he suffered from a hyperextended knee during practice. As a result, he was put on the Injured Reserve list (IR). Carson has recorded 44 tackles for loss without sacking any player so far. 

The Cowboys Have Signed a Cornerback With Immense Potential

Kendrick, on the flip side, is a two-time Super Bowl Champion. In 2022, his rookie year, he powered through with Matthew Stafford and the Rams. The 25-year-old made 43 tackles in his first pro season. After two seasons, he signed with the 2025 Super Bowl Champions, the Seattle Seahawks.

In the last season, Kendrick played in 10 games and made 10 tackles. He intercepted two passes on 94 coverage snaps. Despite his experience, Kendrick has only started 18 games. A breakout performance from Kendrick could jeopardize Carson's future with the team.

It is reported that the Cowboys will pick a cornerback, and could either be Mansoor Delane or Aveion Terrell. The roster already consists of DaRon Bland, Delane, Durant, Shavon Revel Jr., Reddy Steward, and Zion Childress. So, with a new addition, can the franchise accommodate Carson? 

The Cowboys are determined to win more than just a playoff berth after ending the last season with a 7-9-1 record.

But will the winning squad include Carson? What are your thoughts? Share them in the comments. 

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi