As the NFL preseason progresses, the Dallas Cowboys face the challenging task of narrowing down their roster from 90 to 53 players. This process is especially difficult given the number of talented athletes vying for a spot. Among those on the bubble is 26-year-old defensive lineman Chauncey Golston, who, despite his contributions, may find himself on the chopping block.
Chauncey Golston, drafted in the third round in 2021, has consistently served as a reliable backup for the Cowboys. Standing 6-foot-5, Golston has played in nearly all games over his three seasons, accumulating a solid record with 79 tackles, nine quarterback hits, and 3.5 sacks. Despite never securing a starting role, he has maintained a steady presence on the field, featuring in 41% of defensive snaps in 2021, 23% in 2022, and 29% in 2023. Entering the final year of his rookie contract, Golston has demonstrated his ability to contribute consistently to the team.
However, the Cowboys’ defensive line is experiencing significant changes. The departure of veterans like Johnathan Hankins and Neville Gallimore has opened up opportunities for new talent. Consequently, rookies such as Justin Rogers and Denzel Daxon are being given considerable attention, putting Golston’s position in jeopardy. As highlighted by Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon, the influx of new players could spell the end of Golston’s tenure with the team.
Despite his solid performance, Golston’s future with the Cowboys is uncertain. His performance metrics, including a respectable 66.8 overall defensive grade and a 75.0 pass-rushing grade from Pro Football Focus, show his competency. Yet, the team’s need to evaluate younger, potentially more dynamic players may lead to difficult decisions. Financially, releasing Golston would result in minimal dead cap hit ($233,925) and save the Cowboys $1.3 million, a factor that cannot be ignored.
This isn’t the first time Golston’s roster spot has been in question. Earlier in the offseason, FanSided’s Sayre Bedinger also flagged Golston as a potential cut candidate, citing the Cowboys’ strategy to refresh their defensive line with new talent due to his underwhelming development as a top-100 pick. Such moves are common as teams often prefer younger, cost-effective players who bring fresh potential.
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, Golston’s fate hangs in the balance. The team must weigh his experience and reliability against the promise and potential of the new rookies. The decision will ultimately reflect the Cowboys’ strategic direction as they strive to optimize their roster for the best chance of success.