3 Cowboys players facing a tougher path to the 53-man roster after Dallas' first week of free agency

The Dallas Cowboys prioritized volume throughout the first week of NFL free agency, adding 11 outside players including trades. 

Though they didn't add players that could significantly shake up the starting lineup, they will surely get some competition going at the bottom of the depth chart. 

As a result, other Cowboys players' path to the 53-man roster is getting tougher. Specifically, three names stand out. Let's dive in. 

RB Deuce Vaughn

Even though Rico Dowdle is gone, Vaughn is already facing fierce competition. The Cowboys added veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders and are likely adding an additional RB in the 2025 NFL Draft, be it Ashton Jeanty at No. 12 or someone later on. 

Vaughn has a shot at competing for a spot on the team but it will tough. Both Sanders and Williams have him beat on experience and Williams could emerge as the third-down back of the team in large part thanks to his pass protection, something Vaughn has limited film of. 

With that being said, Vaughn could benefit from the Conor Riley hire as offensive line coach as he was at Kansas State before Deuce headed to the NFL. 

WR Jalen Brooks

The Parris Campbell signing might turn out to be nothing but an attempt at landing a training camp body. But he is a veteran and a talented one. As long as he stays healthy, he's a candidate to make the roster. Jalen Tolbert's spot is probably secure and moving on from Jonathan Mingo would be a surprise to me after the Cowboys gave up a fourth-rounder for him. 

But Brooks, despite his flashes, could end up being on the chopping block before the season begins.

LB Damone Clark

The additions on Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray at linebacker could prove costly to Clark, who is hoping to bounce back after being sidelined upon Mike Zimmer's arrival at Dallas. Clark went from starting 17 games in 2023 to a 15% defensive snap count in 2024, per Pro Football Reference. 

Marist Liufau and DeMarvion Overshown (when healthy) will probably spearhead the group but the depth chart is already getting crowded.