The Dallas Cowboys have made it clear that fixing their defense is the top priority this offseason, and new safety Jalen Thompson likes what he sees so far.
Dallas started by hiring defensive coordinator Christian Parker, then traded for edge rusher Rashan Gary and added Thompson on a three-year, $33 million deal in free agency. The Cowboys also brought in cornerback Cobie Durant and safety P.J. Locke to continue the secondary overhaul.
Thompson, who spent all seven of his previous seasons in Arizona, said he believes the pieces are in place for a major turnaround.
“We got all the right pieces,” Thompson said. “We’re ready to go. We got to show that it’s not the same defense as last year.”
Thompson praised Parker’s ability to put players in the right spots and said the new coordinator brings a level of versatility that excites him.
“Players that have worked under him have been All-Pros,” Thompson said. “He brings that versatility to the defense, where he puts guys in different places that do the right thing for the team.”
Thompson himself is one of the most versatile defensive backs in the league. Over his seven seasons, he has lined up at free safety, in the box, in the slot and even along the defensive line. He has recorded nine interceptions, 578 tackles and two sacks in his career.
He said he is ready to fill whatever role Parker needs.
“My film shows it. I got tape that shows it,” Thompson said. “Wherever they need me at, I’m ready to get it going.”
The 2025 Cowboys defense ranked among the worst in the league, lacking both playmakers and creativity. The hope in Dallas is that Parker and a new group of versatile defenders can change that identity entirely in 2026.
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