With a much-needed defensive rebuild underway, the Cowboys have one less cornerback to worry about for 2026. As of Wednesday, the franchise has secured a former Los Angeles Rams player.

In an X post, NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported that Derion Kendrick is the newest addition to the NFC franchise. 

“CB Derion Kendrick is signing with the Cowboys on a 1-year deal, per his agent Matt Leist of LAA,” Tom Pelissero wrote on X.

The 25-year-old cornerback signed a 1 year contract with the Cowboys for an undisclosed amount. The Rams had picked Kendrick in 2022 in round six.

Back then, the rookie had signed a 4-year contract for around $3.7 million with the franchise.

While he's not quite the big money move such as Maxx Crosby that the Cowboys fans have hoped for, he does provide depth to the defense.

Kendrick appeared in 15 games and made 36 solo tackles in his rookie season. This number rose to a career-high 41 tackles in 2023 before he missed the 2024 season entirely due to a torn ACL. 

In August 2025, the Rams claimed him off waivers, and he played for the Seattle Seahawks till he was waived in November.

Given the Cowboys' need at cornerback, this is a prime opportunity for Kendrick to have a comeback season.

The Cowboys Are Desperate for Healthy and Proven Cornerbacks

The Dallas Cowboys' cornerback position has a mix of depth and uncertainty.

With DaRon Bland and Shavon Revel both coming off significant injuries and Cobie Durant locked into just a one-year deal, stability is far from guaranteed.

While names like Caelen Carson and others offer developmental upside under the new coaching staff, Dallas could still look to strike early in the draft, eyeing an instant-impact starter at No. 12 or 20 to solidify the position.

Though not specifically at the CB position, the latest reports suggest that head coach Brian Schottenheimer might’ve already made up his mind on some prospects.

On Monday night, he had dinner with Texas Longhorns’ Anthony Hill Jr., who is predicted to be a late first-round pick. 

For now, Dallas has secured a cornerback without having to use any draft capital. The team's next moves will be critical in shaping the 2026 roster.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote