Terence Steele secures long-term future as a Dallas Cowboy with $86.8 million deal

In a significant move to strengthen their offensive line, the Dallas Cowboys have secured the services of right tackle Terence Steele until 2028.

Steele, who was once an undrafted free agent, has signed a five-year extension with the Cowboys worth $86.8 million with $50 million guaranteed according to ESPN’sAdam Schefter.

From undrafted to Dallas Cowboys star

Steele’s journey to this remarkable contract extension is a testament to his dedication and growth as an NFL player since he was an undrafted rookie back in 2020.

Before this extension, Steele was set to play the 2023 season under the second-round restricted free agent tender, which would have earned him only $4.3 million.

However, this new deal secures his place as an integral element in the Cowboys’ offense and firmly places him among the league’s elite right tackles.

Steele’s average annual salary of $17.36 million makes him the eighth-highest-paid right tackle in the NFL, with Philadelphia’sLane Johnson at the top of the list earning $21.2 million per year on average.

Dallas has now committed to Steele through the 2028 season, providing stability to their offensive line.

Steele’s rise in the NFL

Terence Steele’s importance to the team became evident when he seamlessly stepped into the starting role following an injury to La’el Collins in Week 1 of the 2020 season. Since then, Steele has continually improved and solidified his place on the roster.

Even during a challenging period when Steele suffered a torn ACL towards the end of the 2022 season, his absence was felt as veteran Tyron Smith, primarily a left tackle, had to step in on the right side.

Steele’s remarkable recovery and consistent performance have earned him this well-deserved extension.

This contract extension for Steele arrives at a crucial time for the Cowboys, as they have other significant contracts to address, including the colossal cap charge of Dak Prescott in 2024 and the anticipated contract demands of Micah Parsons after the 2023 season.

Despite these impending financial challenges, the Cowboys have made it clear that securing key talents like Terence Steele is a priority.

With 45 regular-season appearances and 40 starts to his name, along with the unique distinction of catching a touchdown pass in 2021, Steele’s journey from undrafted free agent to a player with an $86.8 million contract is a testament to his dedication and the Cowboys’ commitment to building a competitive team.

The Cowboys will kick off their 2023 campaign on September 10 on Sunday Night Football at MetLife Stadium against the New York Giants.