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Cornerback Kenny Moore II, who NFL pundits have linked to Brian Schottenheimer and the Dallas Cowboys through trade rumors, reached NFL free agency on Thursday.
The possibility of the Dallas Cowboys acquiring veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II from the Indianapolis Colts resurfaced this week. But if the Cowboys want Moore, they won’t have to trade for him anymore.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Thursday the Colts have parted ways with Moore. Indianapolis cutting the veteran cornerback fulfilled his earlier offseason release request.
Veteran safety Kenny Moore asked for and was granted his release from the Indianapolis Colts today, per source.
Moore’s release came just hours after Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox named Moore one of the “most likely post-June 1 trade candidates” around the NFL.
Knox named the Cowboys one of two potential trade suitors.
“Moore appeared in 14 games this past season, and at a budget trade price, he should interest cornerback-needy teams,” wrote Knox.
Last season, Moore posted 55 combined tackles, including three tackles for loss in 14 games. He also had six pass defenses, 1.5 sacks, three quarterback hits and one interception.
In Dallas, Moore would give the Cowboys another veteran cornerback to help their secondary. Specifically, Moore could offer Dallas an upgrade in the slot.
Could Cowboys Sign CB Kenny Moore in NFL Free Agency?
It’s possible the Cowboys weren’t particularly interested in acquiring Moore from Indianapolis because the likelihood of his release was pretty high. Schefter reported on April 10 the veteran cornerback requested to be traded.
Moore made clear to ESPN’s Stephen Holder he had no ill-will towards the Colts organization. But both sides “felt it was time to explore a trade.”
Moore began his career as an undrafted free agent for the New England Patriots. But he has only played in the NFL regular season with the Colts.
Set to turn 31 years old in August, Moore will now look for an opportunity with another franchise. With his release, the Cowboys can add the veteran without having to give up anything in return. Dallas also won’t have to accept Moore’s previous contract in Indianapolis.
With his cut, the Colts saved $9.9 million in cap space for the 2026 season.
In Indianapolis, Moore played 132 games, starting 111 of them. He posted 649 combined tackles, including 39 tackles for loss with 11.5 sacks and 21 interceptions. During 2021, he made the Pro Bowl.
Last season, Moore lined up for his fewest defensive snaps since 2019. His seven starts were his fewest since his rookie 2017 campaign as well.
Cowboys Secondary Changes During 2026 NFL Offseason
Had Moore been a free agent in March, he probably would have had a strong chance of being a Cowboys target.
But Dallas has already made a lot of additions to its defense, particularly the secondary, this offseason.
In 2026 NFL free agency, the Cowboys signed two safeties — Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke — and two cornerbacks — Cobie Durant and Derion Kendrick. Dallas also made multiple trades to improve their front seven prior to the draft.
Then in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cowboys picked safety Caleb Downs and edge rusher Malachi Lawrence. Dallas then added cornerback Devin Moore on Day 3 of the draft.
Slot cornerback is one area where the Cowboys haven’t necessarily addressed. That’s what could make Dallas a potential Moore suitor.
But that’s far from guaranteed since the Cowboys have already made so many new defensive additions.
Dallas is aiming to have a much better pass defense during the 2026 campaign. The Cowboys finished last in passing yards allowed, which significantly contributed to the defense’s last ranking in scoring defense and third-to-last spot in total yards allowed.
Dave Holcomb is a sports reporter covering the NFL and MLB for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Pittsburgh Steelers and a variety of other NFL teams. Originally from Pittsburgh, Holcomb has covered college and professional sports for outlets including FanSided, Rotowire and Yardbarker. More about Dave Holcomb