Dallas Cowboys Retain Key Depth Pieces with Bass, Steward Tender Signings
The Dallas Cowboys retain OL T.J. Bass and CB Reddy Steward after both sign 2026 tenders, strengthening depth ahead of the NFL season.
The Dallas Cowboys have secured two important depth contributors for the 2026 season, with offensive lineman T.J. Bass and cornerback Reddy Steward officially signing their respective contract tenders.
The move ensures both players remain under team control heading into the upcoming NFL season, reinforcing roster stability during a critical offseason period.
Contract Details and Tender Structure
T.J. Bass (Offensive Line)
Bass signed a second-round restricted free agent tender worth approximately $5.76 million, reflecting the team’s high valuation of his versatility and reliability.
A second-round tender means:
- Other teams can make an offer
- Dallas has the right to match
- If they decline, they receive a second-round draft pick as compensation
This structure highlights Bass as more than just a backup—he is considered a potential starter-level asset across the league.
Reddy Steward (Cornerback)
Steward signed an exclusive rights free agent (ERFA) tender valued around $1 million, ensuring he remains with Dallas without negotiation leverage from other teams.
ERFA contracts typically apply to younger players with limited accrued seasons, allowing teams to retain developing talent at a lower cost.
Player Impact and 2025 Performance
T.J. Bass: Versatile Line Depth
Bass has quietly become one of the Cowboys’ most dependable interior linemen. Over his tenure:
- Played multiple positions including guard and center
- Provided key injury cover across the offensive line
- Started multiple games when needed
His versatility becomes even more critical if lineup shifts occur, such as potential positional changes involving Tyler Smith.
Reddy Steward: Emerging Defensive Contributor
Steward emerged as a valuable piece in the secondary during the 2025 season:
- Played in all 17 games
- Started 5 games
- Recorded 63 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble
He also showed positional flexibility, filling in at safety during injury situations—adding further depth to the Cowboys’ defensive scheme.
Strategic Context: Why These Moves Matter
Depth Wins in the NFL
In modern NFL roster construction, depth players like Bass and Steward play a crucial role in:
Injury replacement
Rotational flexibility
Special teams contributions
The Cowboys’ decision reflects a strategy focused on retaining proven internal talent rather than relying solely on external acquisitions.
Flexibility for Future Moves
Despite signing their tenders, both players could still:
- Be traded
- Be included in package deals
- Compete for starting roles
This gives Dallas flexibility as they continue shaping their 2026 roster.
Technical Explanation: NFL Tender System
Restricted Free Agent (RFA) Tender
- Player can negotiate with other teams
- Original team can match offers
- Compensation depends on tender level (e.g., 2nd round)
Exclusive Rights Free Agent (ERFA)
- Player cannot negotiate elsewhere
- Team retains full control
- Typically used for young or developing players
This system allows teams like the Cowboys to balance cost control with talent retention.
Sources
- Dallas Cowboys Official Website
- NFL contract and free agency rules
- Team and player statistics records
