Michael Gallup #13 of the Dallas Cowboys
Former Cowboys WR Michael Gallup Joins Washington in NFL Comeback
The Dallas Cowboys entered the offseason with a glaring need at wide receiver opposite CeeDee Lamb. When a familiar name announced his return to the NFL, some fans hoped it could be the answer. However, that hope was short-lived, as former Cowboys standout Michael Gallup has found a new home—and it’s not in Dallas.
Instead, Gallup is reuniting with former Cowboys defensive coordinator-turned-Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, marking yet another ex-Cowboy to land in Washington. The Commanders officially announced the signing on Thursday, March 20.
Gallup’s Journey from Dallas to Washington
Gallup, 28, spent six seasons with the Cowboys after being drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Over his Dallas tenure, he recorded 266 receptions for 3,744 yards and 21 touchdowns. His best season came in 2019 when he posted 66 catches for 1,107 yards and six scores, showcasing his ability as a legitimate downfield threat.
Unfortunately, an ACL tear in 2021 derailed his trajectory. The Cowboys still showed faith in him, signing him to a five-year, $62.5 million extension in 2022. However, Gallup never regained his pre-injury explosiveness, and his production dipped significantly. Ahead of the 2024 season, he inked a one-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders, only to step away from the game before training camp.
Now, he’s making an NFL comeback—this time, as a member of the Cowboys’ division rival.
🆕 addition to the wide receiver room@michael13gallup | #RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/HWEMcdln5y
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) March 20, 2025
Washington Continues to Poach Ex-Cowboys
Gallup’s move to Washington follows a growing trend of former Cowboys linking up with Quinn. Since taking over as the Commanders’ head coach, Quinn has made a habit of bringing in familiar faces from his time in Dallas. While the details of Gallup’s contract with Washington have yet to be revealed, the move suggests the Commanders believe the veteran wideout still has something left in the tank.
For Dallas, it’s a reminder of their pressing need at wide receiver. With the NFL Draft approaching, the Cowboys will likely continue searching for a dynamic option to complement Lamb in 2025.
As for Gallup, he’ll have the opportunity to prove he still belongs in the league—while potentially haunting his former team twice a year.
