Jonathan Bullard's new contract with the Dallas Cowboys is more than just a business deal. The veteran lineman signed on a date with deep personal meaning, fulfilling a dream for his late grandmother.

On Saturday, NFL insider Mike Garafolo reported that the Cowboys have signed Jonathan Bullard to a one-year deal worth up to $2.5 million at maximum. The deal took place on 28 March, which is Bullard’s late grandmother’s birthday.

“The #Cowboys are signing veteran DL Jonathan Bullard, per his agent Jon Perzley of @SPORTSTARSNYC. Bullard is signing a one-year, $2.5M max deal on the day of his late grandmother Joyce’s birthday, which is fitting because he’s said she was a “hollering at the TV” Cowboys fan,” Garafolo on X.

This deal is special in more than one way. Bullard’s grandmother, Joyce Robbs, sadly passed away in 2012 after battling cancer.

After a sack-less season for the New Orleans Saints, Bullard was not re-signed by the franchise, letting Dallas swoop in and bring him on.

Had Bullard's grandmother been alive, Robbs would’ve been the happiest for her grandson, as she was a huge Cowboys fan. So much so that Bullard described her as a passionate “hollering at the TV” viewer. 

The signing also provides relief for the Cowboys, who previously pursued defensive ends like Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett.

The 32-year-old veteran is not impressive statistically, but he brings depth and experience to the Cowboys.

How Much Will the Cowboys Benefit From Bullard?

He was drafted in round 3 in 2016 by the Chicago Bears. Bullard has played in six teams so far. The Dallas Cowboys will be his seventh.

The veteran has also played for the Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, and the New Orleans Saints over the years.

In the nine seasons he has played, Bullard has appeared in 131 games and recorded 247 tackles and 6.5 sacks. His two sacks and a forced fumble in 2017 contributed to his best year with a 66 PFF grade.

In 2025, Bullard started six games. He posted 26 tackles. His 12 solo tackles were his third-lowest tally in a season.

Bullard might not be an elite player like Garrett or even Crosby, but he is certainly welcome after a tumultuous season. 

What are your thoughts on this move? Tell us in the comments. You can read more at the Dallas Cowboys Community!

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote