Cowboys Cut Deuce Vaughn and Trade Asim Richards in Shocking Roster Shakeup

The Dallas Cowboys have made their final roster decisions ahead of the 2025 season, with surprise cuts, tough injury setbacks, and a trade that caught fans off guard.

Injury Report

The Cowboys will start the season without several key players. Wide receiver Jonathan Mingo and defensive end Payton Turner were both placed on short-term injured reserve. Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown and cornerback Josh Butler were placed on the physically unable to perform list, while cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. was placed on the non-football injury list.

Roster Cuts

Running back Deuce Vaughn was one of the most notable names among Dallas’ 24 roster cuts. The undersized but electrifying back was unable to carve out a role after an uphill preseason battle. Wide receiver Jalen Brooks was also waived, a move first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero before the team confirmed the decision.

Trade News

Dallas struck a deal with the New Orleans Saints, sending offensive lineman Asim Richards in exchange for future compensation. The Saints later announced the move.

What It Means

The Cowboys enter 2025 with a thinned-out roster at multiple positions. The injuries in the secondary are especially concerning with both Butler and Revel sidelined. Vaughn’s release signals a vote of confidence in the current running back room, while the Richards trade opens the door for younger linemen to step up.

The team has reached the 53-man limit, but how they handle early depth issues could determine their start to the season.