The Dallas Cowboys have made significant roster changes, releasing first-round cornerback Kaiir Elam after he struggled for playing time. Elam, who was acquired in a March trade as a backup option for All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs, was waived on a recent Saturday.
Cowboys Release First-Round CB Kaiir Elam
Elam, a former 23rd overall draft pick in 2022, joined Dallas after spending his first three seasons with the Buffalo Bills. The Cowboys traded a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and a seventh-round pick in 2026 to acquire him. In return, they received a sixth-round selection for 2025, which they utilized to draft offensive lineman Ajani Cornelius.
Changes in the Defensive Lineup
Since the start of the season, Elam has seen a notable decrease in playing time. Initially, he played every defensive snap in the first three games as a result of injuries affecting his teammates. However, as the season progressed, his snap percentage dropped from 95.2% in Week 8 against Denver to just 3 snaps on special teams in the recent game against Las Vegas.
- Week 8: 95.2% snaps vs. Denver
- Week 9: 61.2% snaps vs. Arizona
- Week 10: 3 snaps vs. Las Vegas
With Caelen Carson returning from injury and rookie Shavon Revel Jr. making his NFL debut, Elam’s role diminished significantly. Currently, he ranks fourth on the Cowboys’ defense in snaps and seventh in tackles, totaling 29 tackles.
Signing of Malik Davis
To fill Elam’s vacant spot, the Cowboys promoted running back Malik Davis from the practice squad to the active roster. Davis, an undrafted free agent from Florida, has been a versatile player but has found it challenging to secure a consistent role. He has recorded 187 yards and a touchdown on 45 carries in 19 games since joining the team.
As Elam heads for the waiver wire, his future with another NFL team is uncertain. He has $1 million fully guaranteed remaining on his contract with the Cowboys.
For real-time updates and discussions, fans can follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook and engage with fellow supporters.
