The Jacksonville Jaguars haven't yet addressed the pass rush this offseason. And based on James Gladstone's comments, they probably won't until the draft. That said, the Jags could most definitely use a No. 3 behind Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker. While there are still a few options available, the Jags have one fewer following the latest Dante Fowler Jr. news.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that Fowler is signing a one-year deal worth $8 million with the Dallas Cowboys after spending one last season with the Washington Commanders.
Reunion: #Commanders FA edge Dante Fowler Jr, one of the top players available, is signing with the #Cowboys on a 1-year, $8M deal, per The Insiders.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2025
A full-circle moment, as Fowler was in Dallas in 2022-23. Deal negotiated by Sean Kiernan and Tom Povinelli of @AthletesFirst. pic.twitter.com/NJqW7ppmj8
It wasn't long ago that Fowler might've hinted that he was frustrated with the Commanders' lack of urgency to re-signing, posting on Twitter that, "The disrespect... I can't take it anymore." Fortunately, he didn't have to wait much to get a deal from the Cowboys.
The third overall pick in the 2015 draft, Fowler began his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 2018 and spent time with the Atlanta Falcons and the Dallas Cowboys before signing with Washington last year. The former Florida Gator went on to register a team-high 10.5 sacks.
Fowler has appeared in 142 games with 47 starts in nine NFL seasons, not counting his rookie campaign, which he missed after suffering an ACL injury. While he never truly became the game-changer the Jags expected, he's certainly had a productive career, registering 55.5 sacks.
Related story: Grading all Jaguars signings in 2025 NFL Free Agency
How Dante Fowler Jr. could've helped the Jaguars in 2025
Even though James Gladstone said that bringing in veterans could've hurt the development of the incoming rookie class, Dante Fowler Jr. could've helped the Jacksonville Jaguars. In fact, signing him would've allowed them to address other needs in the draft. With him out of the market, Leonard Floyd, Von Miller, and Za'Darious Smith are probably the best pass rushers available in the open market.
Already, the team's brass has beefed up the offensive line and gotten help at wide receiver, cornerback, and safety. Having said that, their defensive line is still waiting for reinforcements. By bringing in Fowler, the Jags could've fully turned their attention to the defensive trenches early in the draft.
Then again, the pass rush isn't a priority due to the presence of Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker. Jacksonville could wait until Rounds 3 or 4 and come out with a promising pass rusher.
The bottom line is that arranging a reunion with Dante Fowler Jr. would've helped the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, they don't want to deviate from the vision they plan they've laid out this offseason.