Cowboys defender sends strong message after signing new contract

The Dallas Cowboys lost Jourdan Lewis in NFL free agency as the veteran defensive back signed a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars. That leaves a hole in the slot, but that could be filled by safety Israel Mukuamu, a 2021 sixth-round pick out of South Carolina.

Mukuamu played cornerback for the Gamecocks but Dallas converted the 6-foot-4, 205-pounder to safety in the NFL. He's developed into a solid depth piece, which was evident in 2022 when Lewis missed 11 games and Mukuamu was asked to take over as the nickel back.

Despite being much larger than most slot corners, Mukuamu handled the role well, giving the Cowboys a dependable option should they fail to find a replacement in the draft. He's also thrilled to be running it back with the Cowboys, posting a message on social media expressing his excitement.