While there may be questions on the offensive side of the ball, the Dallas Cowboys are ensuring their strong defense remains intact.
For some Dallas Cowboys fans, the play of quarterback Dak Prescott will determine how far they will go this upcoming season. While there are some questions on the offensive side of the ball, the defense is unquestionably their strength. With training camp underway, the team ensured that their star cornerback would be going nowhere, as they signed Trevon Diggs to a massive five-year, $97 million contract extension.
As it turns out, the Cowboys weren't done just yet.
According to ESPN senior NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Cowboys are signing safety Malik Hooker to a three-year, $24 million extension. The deal is $16.5 million guaranteed and features a $8 million signing bonus paid in the next 15 days.
Cowboys keep secondary intact, sign Malik Hooker to extension
Hooker started his career with the Indianapolis Colts as their first-round pick in 2017. However, the former Ohio State Buckeyes defensive back dealt with a variety of injuries, including a torn Achilles that kept him out for the majority of the 2020 season. Hitting free agency after having his fifth-year option declined, the Cowboys gave him an opportunity, and he has thrived.
Playing in 15 games his first season, Hooker had 44 combined tackles (30 solo, 14 assisted), two passes defended, and one interception. In coverage, Hooker allowed 16 receptions for 149 yards and two touchdowns on 28 targets, per Pro Football Reference.
After the 2021 season, Hooker signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him under contract through the 2023 season.
This past season, Hooker played in 16 games for Dallas, recording 62 combined tackles (44 solo, 18 assisted), three defended passes, and three interceptions. Hooker also allowed 20 receptions for 220 yards and two touchdowns on 27 targets.
In what was initially his walk year, Hooker will now remain in Dallas through the 2026 season.
As for the Cowboys, now they'll have to find a way to keep offensive guard Zack Martin, who is currently holding out of training camp for a new contract.
