3 biggest surprises from Cowboys' initial 53-man roster for 2025 NFL season

The Dallas Cowboys have trimmed the roster down to 53 players. Here are the biggest surprises from the roster cut deadline.

Dallas Cowboys receiver Traeshon Holden carries the ball during training camp at the River Ridge Fields. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys, along with the rest of the NFL, have officially finished up the hardest day on the league's calendar.

Roster cuts are never easy, and today, many players found out they won't be a part of the 2025 season.

MORE: Cowboys roster cuts tracker: List of players released on way to 53-men

The Cowboys made some headline worthy moves with their roster cuts, with some moves shocking the fans. Here are the biggest surprises from the Cowboys' roster cut deadline.

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Traeshon Holden Waived

Oregon wideout Traeshon Holden during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

UDFA wide receiver Traeshon Holden was one of the most impressive players during camp. However, his training camp performance wasn't good enough to land him on the 53-man roster. Holden shouldn't be without a home for long. Just hope it isn't someone else in the NFC East.

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Going Or Staying?

A change: Cowboys call DT Perrion Winfrey telling him “this is his last chance” and he’s going to make the 53 according to a person with knowledge of the discussions. Winfrey thought he was getting cut but he’s here to stay.

— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) August 26, 2025

It was reported that defensive tackle Perrion Winfrey would be let go during cuts. Then, it was reported that Winfrey was getting one more shot in Dallas. What a roller coaster of a day for Winfrey and those who were competing for that same roster spot.

MORE: Cowboys trade third-year, versatile offensive lineman to Saints

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Israel Mukuamu

Dallas Cowboys safety Israel Mukuamu celebrates after an interception during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams. | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Arguably, the biggest surprise of the day was the Cowboys' releasing defensive back Isreael Mukuamu. Mukuamu started three games for the team in his four years in Dallas, while playing a vital part on special teams.

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