The Dallas Cowboys have traded a fifth-round pick (No. 152 overall) to the San Francisco 49ers for linebacker Dee Winters, addressing a critical need in their defense after a challenging 2025 season, where they allowed an average of 30.1 points per game. Winters, a former standout at TCU, brings experience after starting 27 games for San Francisco, including all 17 games in 2025, where he recorded 101 tackles and contributed key stats in interceptions and tackles for loss. This strategic move aims to strengthen the middle linebacker position next to DeMarvion Overshown, replacing the departed Kenneth Murray. The trade is viewed favorably for both parties, as it allows Dallas to bolster their defense while giving the 49ers a higher draft pick. Cowboys fans are excited to see Winters, a local hero, return to the Dallas area.

By the Numbers
  • Dee Winters recorded a career-high 101 tackles in 2025, leading the 49ers.
  • Dallas allowed an average of 30.1 points per game in 2025, the most in the league.
State of Play
  • The Cowboys filled a significant vacancy at middle linebacker after a poor performance from previous players.
  • Winters will join a Cowboys defense looking to improve after a historically bad season in points allowed.
What's Next

As the Cowboys prepare for the 2026 season, they will rely heavily on Winters to stabilize their defense. The effectiveness of this trade will be assessed based on the team's ability to reduce their points allowed per game and the impact of Winters on overall defensive performance. The Cowboys are also expected to continue evaluating their defensive strategies to enhance team performance.

Bottom Line

This trade underscores the Cowboys' commitment to addressing defensive issues head-on and signifies a calculated risk that could yield significant rewards. Expect Dee Winters to play a pivotal role as Dallas seeks to rebound from a disappointing season.