Former Cowboys starter, fan favorite among NFC East rival cuts

A former Dallas Cowboys standout was among six players released by an NFC East rival on Monday.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Gallup reacts after making a touchdown catch against the New York Giants. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

In 2018, the Dallas Cowboys added Michael Gallup in the third round of the NFL draft, and the Colorado State product quickly became a fan favorite.

He recorded 1,107 yards and six touchdowns in his second season, emerging as a trusted option for Dak Prescott. Injuries slowed him down after that campaign, but he still showed enough promise to land a five-year, $62.5 million extension in 2022.

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Unfortunately, Gallup was never able to return to form following an ACL tear suffered in 2021. He was released ahead of the 2024 season and signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. Gallup retired before training camp, but attempted a comeback this year with the Washington Commanders.

His return was unsuccessful as Gallup was named among six players released by the Commanders on Monday.

The #Commanders released six players, including veteran WR Michael Gallup.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 25, 2025

In six seasons with Dallas, Gallup recorded 266 receptions for 3,744 yards and 21 touchdowns. He had a knack for hauling in contested passes, which led to his popularity among the fan base.

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With the Commanders, he was trying to make the roster under former Cowboys' defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who is in his second season as the head coach in Washington.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Gallup makes a catch in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams. | Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

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