Christian Parker's defense has kept two defensive pieces as the Cowboys look to fill out their roster.
The Dallas Cowboys' offseason has been dominated by the contract sagas of George Pickens and Brandon Aubrey.
With both now high-profile contracts that the Cowboys have to get done to long-term deals (if they want), it is no wonder all eyes are on the pair to see what the future holds for them over the coming weeks.
No, they aren't going anywhere, but having their long-term futures not sorted out is a rather problematic thing, given how often it will come up during the offseason and regular season.
But that's how Dallas does business sometimes.
And also, while the signing of players at key positions is vital, so too is keeping those who are good depth pieces.
We have seen some players leave for a bigger pay-day or for more opportunities, but in the cases of young corners Josh Butler and Reddy Steward, the Cowboys have tendered both as exclusive rights free agents.
That means Butler will earn $1.075 million for 2026 and Steward $1.005 million.
Steward was played by Matt Eberflus more out of necessity than desire last season, and the young corner did show flashes as he started five games and appeared in all 17.
He posted 1.5 sacks, five tackles for loss, three passes defended, and a forced fumble.
As for Butler, he suffered a torn ACL just one game into the 2025 season, after a so-so rookie campaign in 2024.
But it is clear the Cowboys see value in Butler, as he made several splashes in his rookie season. The hope is that Butler can get a full offseason of work with Christian Parker to find himself a role.
Granted, that might not be easy with the Cowboys expected to go heavy on defense in both free agency and the draft, but Dallas appears confident there is a place for him and Steward.
With the Cowboys expected to be big players when free agency begins, signing their own free agents first is key, filling holes and needs before attacking free agency.
And in Steward and Butler, two depth pieces will return in 2026.