The Dallas Cowboys are continuing to search for answers in a secondary that struggled mightily in 2025, and their latest move reflects that urgency. Dallas hosted veteran cornerback Adoree’ Jackson for a free-agent visit, signaling a potential veteran addition to stabilize one of the league’s most vulnerable pass defenses.
Jackson, the 18th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, brings nearly a decade of NFL experience along with proven ball production and coverage versatility. In 2025 with the Philadelphia Eagles, he recorded 55 tackles, 11 passes defended, and one interception across 14 games, continuing a trend of steady disruption at the catch point. His career totals include 72 pass deflections and five interceptions, highlighting his ability to consistently contest throws even if he hasn’t been a high-volume takeaway player.
From an efficiency standpoint, Jackson has typically operated as a mid-tier coverage corner in recent seasons, allowing moderate completion percentages and passer ratings while limiting explosive plays. His 2025 campaign suggests quarterbacks still tested him, but he remained active in coverage and around the football.
Veteran Presence
Jackson entered the league, making an immediate impact out of USC to the tune of 17 passes defended and three forced fumbles, showcasing elite athleticism and return ability for the Titans franchise.
After four seasons in Tennessee, Jackson signed with the New York Giants, where he became a full-time starter and reliable outside corner. During his time in New York, he consistently contributed to coverage, including a 2023 season where he posted an interception and eight passes defended while logging significant snaps against top receivers.
Most recently, his stint with Philadelphia added another layer of veteran experience, particularly in rotational and matchup-based roles. Across his career with the Titans, Giants, and Eagles, Jackson has totaled over 450 tackles, 70+ pass breakups, and multiple seasons with double-digit passes defended, reinforcing his reputation as a durable and assignment-sound defensive back.
Cowboys Secondary in Need of Reinforcements
The Cowboys’ secondary performance in 2025 makes this visit unsurprising. Dallas finished with one of the worst defenses in football, ranking 30th in total defense and dead last (32nd) in pass defense, allowing 251.5 passing yards per game and 35 passing touchdowns. Quarterbacks completed 68.5% of their passes against Dallas with a 109.6 passer rating, both among the worst marks in the league.
The lack of playmaking compounded the issue. Dallas managed just six interceptions as a team while surrendering explosive plays at a high rate, leading to a franchise-worst 30.1 points allowed per game.
Personnel turnover has only added to the urgency. The team moved on from key contributors like Trevon Diggs late in the season, while injuries impacted players such as DaRon Bland. Returning pieces like Bland, Malik Hooker, and younger options, including Trikweze Bridges, remain, but the group lacks proven depth and consistent coverage reliability.
Dallas has already added depth pieces in the secondary this offseason, but the roster still leans heavily on unproven or inconsistent contributors. That’s where Jackson fits.
His ability to limit touchdowns, stay active with pass breakups, and keep passer ratings in check would immediately provide stability. While he may not be a true shutdown corner at this stage, Jackson’s experience in multiple defensive schemes and his track record of contesting throws would give Dallas a dependable option opposite their younger corners.
More importantly, his presence could reduce the pressure on the Cowboys’ defense to rely solely on turnovers. A veteran corner who can hold opposing quarterbacks to modest efficiency—keeping completion percentages manageable and limiting scoring throws—would be a significant upgrade for a unit that was routinely exploited through the air.
For a team that allowed the highest passer efficiency numbers in the league last season, even incremental improvement at cornerback could have a major impact. Hosting Adoree’ Jackson isn’t just about adding depth; it’s about restoring credibility to a secondary that was, statistically, among the NFL’s worst.
