The Dallas Cowboys sign former Broncos safety P.J. Locke to a $5M deal, adding veteran depth, experience, and a familiar connection to their secondary.
The Dallas Cowboys added experience and toughness to their defensive backfield Tuesday by signing veteran safety P.J. Locke to a one-year, $5 million contract.
The move brings the former Denver Broncos defender back to his home state of Texas and gives Dallas another experienced option in the secondary heading into the 2026 NFL season.
Locke arrives in Dallas after spending the first six years of his career in Denver, where he built a reputation as a hard-nosed defender and reliable contributor on defense and special teams.
Over 90 career games, the 29-year-old safety produced 174 total tackles, four sacks, five forced fumbles, and an interception during the 2023 season.
For the Cowboys, the signing is about more than just adding depth.
Dallas is looking to rebound after a frustrating 2025 campaign, and experienced defenders like Locke can provide stability in key rotational roles.
One reason the transition could be seamless is the presence of Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who previously coached Locke in Denver when Parker served as the Broncos’ defensive backs coach from 2021 through 2023.
That familiarity with Locke’s playing style and strengths likely played a role in the Cowboys' targeting him in free agency.
Locke’s NFL story is also one of persistence.
He entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2020, grinding his way up from special teams contributor to a trusted defensive option in the Broncos’ secondary.
His work ethic and physical play made him a respected presence in the locker room and among fans.
Before reaching the NFL, Locke starred at Texas, giving him another connection to the Lone Star State as he begins the next chapter of his career.
Now the focus shifts to Dallas, where Locke will compete for playing time while providing leadership and depth to a Cowboys defense determined to bounce back and return to playoff contention.