The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical juncture as they navigate a challenging offseason, with significant decisions looming in their secondary. The team has made a bold and somewhat surprising move, cutting ties with Andrew Booth, a second-round pick formerly of the Minnesota Vikings, amid concerns over the secondary’s depth and the ongoing recovery of star cornerback Trevon Diggs. This decision, influenced by Diggs’ injury status and the team’s long-term strategy, signals the Cowboys’ intent to reshape their defensive backfield as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season.

The Context: Trevon Diggs’ Injury and Its Ripple Effects

Trevon Diggs, an All-Pro cornerback and a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense, suffered a significant knee injury that has cast uncertainty over his availability for the start of the 2025 season. While there is optimism that Diggs could return within the first few weeks of the campaign, his absence has forced the Cowboys to evaluate their depth at the cornerback position. Diggs’ injury exposed vulnerabilities in the secondary last season, with players like Andrew Booth stepping into larger roles than anticipated.

The Cowboys also drafted Shavon Revel Jr. in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, but Revel is also recovering from an injury, further complicating the team’s plans. With both Diggs and Revel sidelined, the Cowboys have been forced to explore other options to bolster their secondary, leading to tough roster decisions.

Why Andrew Booth Was Cut

Andrew Booth’s tenure with the Cowboys has been underwhelming, culminating in his release. Acquired as a second-round pick from the Minnesota Vikings, Booth appeared in seven games for Dallas last season, starting two. His performance, however, left much to be desired. According to Pro Football Reference, Booth was targeted 15 times, allowing 12 completions for 193 yards, two touchdowns, and an 80% completion rate against him. He recorded just one pass deflection, failing to make a significant impact.

ClutchPoints recently highlighted Booth as a potential cut candidate, noting that the Cowboys’ draft investments and undrafted free agent signings at the cornerback position signaled dissatisfaction with his play. “Booth also got caught in the draft crunch. The Cowboys picked Shavon Revel in Round 3. It’s true Revel is trying to come back from an injury, but his abilities when healthy put him in front of Booth,” they wrote. The addition of three undrafted free agents at cornerback further diminished Booth’s standing on the roster.

Booth’s struggles were magnified by the absence of Diggs, as he was thrust into a role he couldn’t handle effectively. While his release may seem ruthless given his draft pedigree, the Cowboys are prioritizing players who can contribute immediately and align with their long-term vision.

The Cowboys’ Secondary: A Work in Progress

With Booth out of the picture, the Cowboys’ secondary remains a concern heading into Week 1. DaRon Bland, who has been working in the slot, and Kaiir Elam, who performed better than expected last season, are currently projected as starters on the outside. However, as Sports Illustrated’s Randy Gurzi pointed out, “While Elam performed better than expected, the Cowboys don’t want to go into Week 1 with that starting unit.”

The uncertainty surrounding Diggs and Revel’s recovery timelines has prompted calls for the Cowboys to pursue a more reliable starter. One potential target is Asante Samuel Jr., a second-round pick who has been available on the free agency market throughout the offseason. Samuel’s experience and skill set could provide the Cowboys with the stability they need until their injured players return. However, the team must act quickly, as Samuel is likely to attract interest from other teams soon.

Gurzi emphasized the urgency of the situation, writing, “With Trevon Diggs and rookie Shavon Revel Jr. still not healed from offseason knee surgery, that very well could be the case. That’s why they should be on the lookout for another capable starter, which they could in Asante Samuel Jr.”

Strategic Implications of the Move

The decision to cut Booth reflects the Cowboys’ willingness to take calculated risks to improve their roster. By parting ways with a player who hasn’t lived up to expectations, the team is creating opportunities to explore other options, whether through free agency, trades, or the development of younger players. The move also underscores the importance of Diggs’ eventual return, as his presence significantly elevates the secondary’s performance.

However, the Cowboys cannot afford to start the season with a depleted secondary, as an early deficit in the standings could jeopardize their playoff aspirations. The team’s front office, led by Jerry Jones, must balance short-term needs with long-term goals, especially as they navigate contract negotiations with key players like Micah Parsons, whose disruptive presence on the defensive line could complement a healthy secondary.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Dallas?

As the Cowboys prepare for the 2025 season, the secondary remains a focal point. The return of Trevon Diggs and Shavon Revel Jr. will be critical, but until then, the team must address the gaps left by Booth’s departure and the injuries. Pursuing a veteran like Asante Samuel Jr. could provide a temporary solution, while the development of younger players like Kaiir Elam and the undrafted free agents will be closely monitored.

The decision to cut Andrew Booth may be seen as ruthless, but it reflects the harsh realities of the NFL, where performance and fit dictate roster decisions. For the Cowboys, this move is a bold step toward building a secondary capable of competing in a highly competitive NFC East. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Dallas to see how they address this critical area of need and whether they can turn their bold decision into a strategic advantage.