The 12th overall pick in 2019, Gary had 46.5 sacks in Green Bay but never reached double figures. He earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2024, but his play began to decline. He was invisible for a long time last season. The pass rusher had 7.5 sacks in 2025, all of which came before Week 9. The struggles kept the Packers going.
The Cowboys add a player new defensive coordinator Christian Parker is familiar with, having been with the Packers during Gary’s first two seasons at Wisconsin. It’s also a reunion for Gary and defensive tackle Kenny Clark in Dallas.
The 28-year-old fills a much-needed role in the Cowboys’ defense, with Jadeveon Clowney and Dante Fowler heading to the free agent market. Gary is also a solid defender, giving the Cowboys’ improved defense some flexibility.
Dallas will take on some salary, but given the fast-moving market, Gary’s deal isn’t excessive. For the price of a Day 3 draft pick a year ago, it’s a solid move to fill a massive hole. But the Cowboys shouldn’t be done adding a dying defense at every level.