Dallas’ Secondary Faces a Game-Changing Turn as Former CB Star Clears PUP, Fans Bracing for a Breakout Season.QQ
The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has been on a rollercoaster this season, but the secondary is about to receive a game-changing reinforcement just in time for the playoff push. Third-year cornerback Josh Butler, a former standout who flashed serious potential in 2024 before a devastating injury, has officially cleared the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list and is set to rejoin the active roster. This move couldn’t come at a better time for a unit that’s been battling injuries but is now poised for its strongest lineup in years.
Butler’s journey back to the field has been one of patience and perseverance. After tearing his ACL in Week 13 of the 2024 season during a matchup against the New York Giants, the young cornerback spent the early part of 2025 on the PUP list, rehabbing and waiting for his opportunity. But as he revealed in a candid post on X earlier this week, he’s been ready to go since Week 6: “Been a year. Been ready since Week 6 and healthy. I just want to ball with the gang. This team so fun. Trusting in God but I’m ready. Let’s go Cowboys.
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The Cowboys’ medical staff and coaching team have now given the green light, activating Butler without using one of their limited injured reserve return designations— a key advantage since his PUP status allows for a straightforward roster addition. With Week 14 looming, Butler is expected to make his 2025 debut soon, providing much-needed depth and versatility to a secondary that’s already seeing positive developments.
This news caps off a week of encouraging updates for Dallas’ defensive backs. All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs is slated to return from his own injury woes in Week 14, while fellow star DaRon Bland escaped serious damage after a scare on Thanksgiving Day. Starting safety Malik Hooker, who dealt with back spasms during the holiday game, is also back to full strength. Add in Butler’s return, and the Cowboys’ secondary suddenly looks formidable—healthy, experienced, and deep.
Butler’s brief but impactful stint in 2024 under defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer hinted at his breakout potential. In just five games (three starts), he racked up 21 tackles, five pass deflections, and even a sack, showcasing his physicality, instincts, and ability to disrupt plays. At 6-foot-0 and 188 pounds, Butler brings a blend of speed and aggression that’s perfect for Zimmer’s scheme. His return addresses one of the defense’s lingering weak spots, especially at cornerback, where depth has been tested amid the team’s overall resurgence.
The Cowboys’ defense as a whole has been thriving lately, bolstered by key additions like defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and linebacker Logan Wilson. The front seven is stacked, with undeniable talent at tackle, end, and linebacker positions, and the safety group is stabilizing with starters healthy. But cornerback remained a question mark—until now. Butler’s activation not only adds an intriguing option but could spark a true breakout campaign for the 25-year-old, who entered the league as an undrafted free agent from Michigan State in 2023 and quickly earned his stripes.
Head coach Mike McCarthy praised Butler’s work ethic during a recent press conference: “Josh has been grinding behind the scenes. He’s hungry, and that’s the kind of energy we need down the stretch.” Defensive coordinator Zimmer echoed those sentiments, noting Butler’s fit in the system: “He’s got the tools to make plays. We’re excited to get him back out there.”
For Cowboys fans, this feels like the missing piece. With a tough slate ahead, including divisional rivals and potential playoff previews, a bolstered secondary could be the difference-maker in securing a postseason berth. Butler’s return isn’t just about depth—it’s about injecting fresh legs and proven production into a unit ready to dominate.
As Butler himself put it, the wait is over. He’s ready to “ball with the gang,” and the Cowboys’ secondary is about to get a major boost. Stay tuned for his on-field impact— this could be the start of something special in Dallas.
