P.J. Locke’s Transition to the Cowboys
On March 10, 2026, P.J. Locke signed a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys, officially ending his tenure with the Denver Broncos. The contract is valued at $5 million, reflecting the Cowboys’ commitment to enhancing their defensive lineup.
Locke, who is now 29 years old, joined the Broncos in 2019 as an undrafted free agent and quickly made his mark. He became a starter in 2023, starting eight games that season and 15 in 2024. During his time with the Broncos, he accumulated impressive statistics, including 11 passes defensed, five forced fumbles, and one interception across 90 games, with 26 of those being starts.
After the 2024 season, Locke underwent spinal fusion surgery, a procedure that raised concerns about his future in the NFL. However, he returned to full strength in time for training camp, showcasing his resilience and determination to continue his career.
Despite expressing a desire to re-sign with the Broncos, Locke was unable to reach a deal, leading him to seek opportunities elsewhere. He preferred the chance to start, which ultimately influenced his decision to join the Cowboys.
Locke’s move to Dallas is significant not only for his career but also for the Cowboys, who are looking to bolster their defense. He will reunite with defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who previously worked with him in Denver, potentially easing his transition to the new team.
In a statement reflecting on his departure from the Broncos, Locke said, “Things didn’t work out business-wise, but just know you guys hold a very, very special place in my heart that I can’t put into words.” This sentiment underscores the emotional aspect of his career moves.
Locke’s previous base salary was $3.49 million, indicating that his new contract represents a significant increase as he embarks on this new chapter with the Cowboys.
As Locke begins his journey with Dallas, the expectations are high. His experience and recent performance could play a crucial role in the Cowboys’ defensive strategies moving forward.
With the signing now official, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Locke adapts to his new environment and what impact he will have on the team’s success in the upcoming season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments in Locke’s role with the Cowboys or additional signings by the team.