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Cowboys Bring Reddy Steward, Several Familiar Faces On Practice Squad
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- Cowboys Bring Reddy Steward, Several Familiar Faces On Practice Squad
The Dallas Cowboys initial 53-man roster is set, but several players who impressed throughout training camp will remain in the organization.
Dallas began building its 2026 practice Monday, bringing back a collection of familiar faces who were waived during final roster cuts. Defensive back Reddy Steward headlines the group after putting together a strong offseason and making a legitimate push for a spot on the Cowboys' active roster.
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The Cowboys also brought back players including Israel Abanikanda , linebacker Justin Barron , defensive tackle Tommy Dunn, wide receivers Jordan Hudson and Anthony Smith, defensive back Derion Kendrick and others.
While they didn't survive the final round of cuts, their return gives Dallas development talent and important depth heading into the regular season.
Reddy Steward gets another opportunity in Dallas
Steward was one of the more intriguing players fighting for a roster spot throughout training camp.
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The former Troy defensive back showed his versatility in the secondary, particularly with his ability to play nickel cornerback. Dallas ultimately didn't have enough room to keep him on the intital 53-man roster, but getting Steward through waivers allowed the Cowboys to retain a young defensive back who could eventually contribute.
Keeping Steward makes sense considering the unpredictable nature of an NFL season. Injuries can quickly change the depth chart, and having a player already familiar with Christian Parker's defense gives Dallas another option if help is needed in the secondary.
Steward could also potentially earn game-day opportunities through practice-squad elevations.
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For now, Dallas gets more time to develop him without losing him to another organization.
Cowboys retain several promising young players
Steward isn't the only notable player sticking around.
Barron earned praise during training camp and gives Dallas additional linebacker depth, while Michael Trigg remains an intriguing developmental prospect at tight end because of his athleticism and receiving ability.
Smith is another player worth watching. The Cowboys selected the speedy wide receiver in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft, but a crowded receiver room made earning a roster difficult. Dallas can now continue developing him on the practice squad rather than completely moving on from the rookie.
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Abanikanda also returns after Dallas reshaped its running back room during roster cuts. The Cowboys waived Abanikanda, Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah before claiming Emari Demercado off waivers. Bringing Abanikanda back gives the team another running back who already knows the offense.
Dallas also reportedly added former Atlanta Falcons offensive Wanya Morris , providing additional depth at a position where having experienced options could become important during the season.
Practice squad could become important during season
Practice squads have become increasingly valuable across the NFL.
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Teams can elevate players when injuries or specific matchups create holes on the active roster, meaning several of Dallas' practice-squad players could eventually see meaningful action.
For the Cowboys, retaining players who spent the summer learning the system also provides continuity. Instead of searching for outside replacements whenever injuries occurs Dallas has a group of players who already understand what the coaching staff expects.
Steward may be the most recognizable name among the returning players, but the Cowboys' practice squad is filled with players who could eventually help.
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They didn't make the initial 53.
But their opportunity in Dallas isn't over.
Dallas Cowboys Essentials
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 1, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
