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Five Cowboys Players at Risk of Being Cut Before Training Camp

Dallas, TX – July 4, 2025

As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to report to Oxnard, California, for training camp on July 21, the pressure is mounting for several players to prove their worth or face the chopping block. With a revamped roster under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer and a 7-10 season to rebound from in 2024, the team is poised to make tough decisions to trim down to the 53-man roster. Here are five Cowboys players currently at risk of being cut.

1. John Stephens Jr. (Tight End)
John Stephens Jr., an undrafted free agent from 2023, has been sidelined by two torn ACLs in 2023 and 2024, limiting his NFL exposure. Despite his 6-foot-5 frame and college stats (41 catches, 665 yards, 7 touchdowns at TCU and Louisiana), he ranks fourth behind Jake Ferguson, Luke Schoonmaker, and Brevyn Spann-Ford. With Spann-Ford gaining first-team reps in minicamp, Stephens’ injury recovery and lack of impact make him a prime candidate for release.

2. Will Grier (Quarterback)
Will Grier, a long-time backup, faces an uncertain future with Joe Milton III’s arrival from the Patriots on April 3. Grier’s lone career start came in 2019, and with Dak Prescott healthy, his role is redundant. His $1 million cap hit is manageable, but Milton’s potential and Grier’s limited production could see him cut to make room for younger talent.

3. Mazi Smith (Defensive Tackle)
Mazi Smith, a 2023 first-round pick, has underperformed with a 34.7 PFF grade in 2024 and recurring injuries. Despite a $5 million cap hit, the Cowboys might cut him if Jay Toia or Solomon Thomas outperform him in camp, especially after a defensive line ranked 28th in yards allowed last year. His third coordinator in three years adds pressure to prove his worth.

4. Caelen Carson (Cornerback)
Caelen Carson, a 2024 fifth-round pick, showed promise but lacks experience. With Trevon Diggs and Shavon Revel Jr. recovering from injuries, and Kaiir Elam and Alijah Clark competing, Carson’s spot is shaky. His development hinges on standout camp performances, or he risks being waived to prioritize proven depth.

5. Malik Davis (Running Back)
Malik Davis, an undrafted free agent from 2022, managed just 27 yards in 8 games in 2024. With Jaydon Blue and Miles Sanders adding competition, Davis’ minimal contribution and frequent roster cuts (waived and re-signed multiple times) make him vulnerable. The Cowboys may opt for younger or more versatile options.

With $32 million in cap space, GM Jerry Jones has flexibility, but these players must impress in camp to avoid the axe. Can they secure their spots, or will new faces take over? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.

Owner David Tepper Admits He Lacks the Competence to Run Football Operations
Can you believe it? David Tepper, the "notorious" owner of the Carolina Panthers, has finally "confessed" a truth that team fans have been waiting for years: He doesn't have enough ability to handle everything himself! But hold on, this isn't a "disaster" – it's a "positive twist" that's saving the Panthers! Is Tepper "letting go" to let the team soar? Read now to uncover the "secret" behind this shocking statement! David Tepper, the billionaire famous for his "deep interference" style in the Carolina Panthers, has undergone an astonishing positive change in ownership. Instead of "micromanaging" every decision like before, Tepper is now less involved, allowing football operations to run independently under the guidance of experts. The result? The team is achieving stability and success beyond expectations, currently tied for first in the NFC South with potential to return to the playoffs after many "sinking" seasons! At the annual charity event Joy to the Carolinas on December 9, 2025, Tepper expressed confidence in the organization's new direction, implicitly admitting that he's not a "superhero" who can run everything himself. He said: "It's not bad at all. It's pretty good; it's all just building blocks, and we'll see where we go. We'll see what happens. We think, as I've said, Dave Canales, Dan Morgan, Brandt Tilis, and everyone in the organization, we're building something special in Carolina. And we've built it outside the community. We're building it on the field, so that's the overall picture. Hopefully, we can continue and have that for many years. That's what we're looking for." This "confession" is actually a wise acknowledgment: Tepper recognizes past mistakes when pushing for quick results, leading to a series of disastrous failures like continuous coach firings and poor draft choices. Now, he supports his professional picks – like head coach Dave Canales, general manager Dan Morgan, and vice president Brandt Tilis – without "interfering." Instead, Tepper focuses on infrastructure (like stadium upgrades) and community efforts, transforming himself from a "demanding boss" to a "silent supporter"! The Panthers are exceeding expectations at the end of the season, with solid gameplay and higher team spirit than ever. Optimism is spreading without the "must-win now" pressure – something that once caused the team to "break apart" under old Tepper. Fans, after years of "disappointment," now appreciate Tepper's enthusiasm and improved role as a true asset. Many fans on social media comment: "Finally, Tepper knows to 'let go' – and the Panthers are soaring because of it!" Some even predict that if this approach is maintained, the Panthers could become the "big boss" of the NFC South for many years to come. But is this "admission" a sign that Tepper is about to sell the team? Or just a "ploy" to appease fans? The Panthers ownership scandal is "hotter than ever" – and Tepper's words could change the team's history! What do you think, is Tepper really "incompetent" or is he "playing fair"? Comment now and follow for the next NFL "drama"!