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Dec 28, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard (20) runs the ball against New Orleans Saints defensive end Jonathan Bullard (98) during the first quarter of the game at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images The Dallas Cowboys decided to add some seasoned muscle to their defensive front by signing veteran defensive end Jonathan Bullard to a one-year deal, worth up to $2.5 million. This move serves as a low-cost depth piece to help the team carry out their new objectives after a change in management on defense. The front office is notorious for letting the dust settle in free agency and then finding these inexpensive players to round out their depth.
Bullard has certainly earned his frequent flyer miles over a decade in the NFL. Since being drafted out of Florida in 2016, he has suited up for the Bears, Cardinals, Seahawks, Falcons, Vikings, and, most recently, last season with the Saints. Staying in the league for ten years is an achievement in itself, especially in the trenches where players take a pounding. While he is not highly decorated with individual achievements or playoff success, he has earned a reputation as a professional survivor and a glue guy who provides stability to every locker room he enters. He has appeared in 131 career games and has only missed two games over the last three seasons.
When you turn on the tape, Bullard stands out as a stout run-stuffer who plays with the kind of grit that defensive line coaches love. His primary strength is a quick first step that sets him up for success right out of the gate. His snap anticipation is excellent, consistently giving him the jump and putting blockers in compromising positions. He’s also a very savvy player, holding his balance and keeping his head up, ensuring he doesn’t take himself out of the play. Add in a high motor, and you have a very solid player who can close up gaps and finish plays in the run game.
While the run-defense stuff is good, the pass-rushing stuff is equally unimpressive. His arsenal of moves is a bit limited. He often relies on a heavy bull rush, which leads to him getting stuck if he does not win early. Because he sits at that awkward 290-pound tweener size, he can sometimes get swallowed up by massive interior double teams or outpaced by smaller and faster tackles on the perimeter. He is caught in that middle ground where he is not quite a massive nose tackle and not quite a speed rusher off the edge, which can make his ideal alignment a bit of a challenge.
Fortunately for Bullard, the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, Christian Parker, loves challenges. He is a perfect fit for what the new staff desires in their defensive linemen. With the team shifting toward more multiple fronts and aggressive gap shooting, his ability to play both the five technique and slide inside as a three technique gives the coordinators a versatile chess piece. The new staff prizes competitiveness and players who do not need their hands held, and Bullard brings a blue-collar work ethic that sets a standard for the younger players. He provides the scheme versatility to keep opposing offenses guessing whether the Cowboys are coming with a heavy front or a light and fast look.
In the grand scheme of the roster, Bullard is not being asked to be the hero who saves the day every Sunday. Instead, he serves as veteran depth. His experience can help keep the defense from springing any leaks in the run game while keeping their primary pass rushers fresh for third-down situations.
Overall, the addition of Bullard is a savvy move that adds a layer of toughness and experience to the Cowboys’ defense. He brings a specific set of skills that addresses the need for interior run defense while providing a veteran voice in a room full of young talent. While he might not be the flashy signing that dominates the headlines, he is exactly the kind of gritty player needed to help the defense. The Cowboys managed to snag a reliable pro on a budget-friendly deal, making this a solid win for a team looking to shore up its trenches.
