An important date in the NFL offseason is approaching, and the Dallas Cowboys appear poised to make a calculated, familiar addition to their pass rush.

According to reports and analysis, the Cowboys are seriously considering a reunion with former fourth-round draft pick Dorance Armstrong, who could become available as a post-June 1 cap casualty from the Washington Commanders.

A Proven Producer Returns Home?

Dorance Armstrong developed into a trusted rotational pass rusher during his four seasons in Dallas. His final year with the Cowboys in 2023 was particularly productive, as he recorded 7.5 sacks. He then followed defensive coordinator Dan Quinn to Washington, signing a three-year, $33 million contract.

In two seasons with the Commanders, Armstrong has tallied 10.5 sacks while establishing himself as a solid run defender. However, he is coming off a knee injury that limited him to a career-low seven games last season. Even in limited action, he still managed 5.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, and seven quarterback hits.

With Washington able to clear more than $9 million in cap space by releasing him after June 1 (while absorbing only $3 million in dead money), Armstrong could represent a high-value, low-risk opportunity for Dallas.

Why It Makes Sense for the Cowboys

The Cowboys originally found a diamond in the rough when they selected Armstrong in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. After providing quality depth early in his career, he broke out with increased playing time. In 2021, he posted five sacks and 12 quarterback hits. The following year, he elevated his game further with 8.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and 16 quarterback hits.

Armstrong’s best football has consistently come under Dan Quinn’s guidance — a key factor in his decision to join Quinn in Washington. A return to Dallas would reunite him with the defensive scheme and coaching staff that helped him thrive.

Currently, Dallas has already taken significant steps to upgrade its pass rush, which ranked near the bottom of the league last season:

• Acquired Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers via trade in March.
• Added veteran depth through free agency with Otito Ogbonnia and Jonathan Bullard.
• Selected edge rusher Malachi Lawrence in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft at No. 23 overall.

Bringing Armstrong back would further strengthen an already improving edge group without requiring a massive financial commitment or sacrificing future assets. As a former Cowboy, he knows the system, the culture, and the division.

NFC East Implications

A successful reunion could give the Cowboys one of the deepest edge rotations in the conference. Last season, only six teams recorded fewer than Dallas’s 35 sacks. Adding Armstrong’s proven production — especially in a rotational role alongside Gary, Lawrence, and others — could push the unit into legitimate contention.

For the rest of the NFC East, particularly the Commanders, this development carries extra sting. Losing a starting edge rusher to a divisional rival after investing in him would be a tough pill to swallow, especially as Dallas continues its aggressive defensive rebuild.

While nothing is finalized, the logic is compelling. Armstrong offers experience, proven production under the current staff, and cap-friendly flexibility at a time when the Cowboys are looking to add smart, veteran pieces.

**The question isn’t whether Dallas needs more pass rush help — it’s whether they can afford to let a known commodity like Dorance Armstrong suit up