Just as the Cowboys are mapping out their future, two former players have decided to close the book on their own careers, leaving fans to reflect on what could have been. Their decisions, coming within days of each other, add another layer to what is already a time of transition for the franchise.

“After a lot of thought and prayer, I’ve decided to officially retire from the NFL,” Wilson wrote. “From being a Wyoming kid with big dreams to hearing my name called in the 3rd round of the 2020 Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals… football gave me more than I ever could have imagined.”

Wilson began his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals as a third-round pick of the 2020 draft. Over five seasons, he played in 65 games, making 541 tackles and grabbing 11 interceptions.

He played a big role in Cincinnati’s run to Super Bowl LVI, even though they fell short against the Los Angeles Rams.

“That 2021 playoff run was something special — the interception in Tennessee to send us to the AFC Championship, beating Kansas City to win the AFC, and taking the field in the Super Bowl. Those moments and that locker room are something I’ll carry with me forever. And the best part of all, my daughter was born there,” he wrote.

In his statement, Wilson also talked about his short stint with the Cowboys.

“I’m also thankful for the opportunity to finish this season in Dallas and for the way that locker room welcomed me in,” he wrote.

The Cowboys acquired him at the 2025 trade deadline for a seventh-round pick. During his brief stint in Dallas, he made an impact in limited action across seven games, contributing 24 tackles and forcing a fumble to close out his career. Last month, on February 20th, the Cowboys released him.

Despite these ups and downs, Wilson is grateful for his journey.

“When I look back on my career, I just feel grateful. Not many Wyoming kids get the chance to live out their dream in the NFL, and I never took a single snap for granted.”

Former Cowboys player T.Y. Hilton also announced his retirement

T.Y. Hilton has officially stepped away from the game at 36, with a post on X.

“After an incredible journey, it’s time for me to retire from the game of football and begin a new chapter,” Hilton wrote on Wednesday. “Thank you to Mr. Irsay, his family, and the entire Colts organization for believing in a kid from Miami and giving me the opportunity to live out my dream wearing the horseshoe.”

Hilton joined the league after being picked in the third round of the 2012 draft. Over the years, he became a well-known name among Indianapolis Colts fans.

In his decade-long career with the Colts, he crossed 9,600 receiving yards, logged multiple 1,000-yard seasons, and was a steady scoring threat with 53 touchdowns, all while delivering big plays in key moments.

While Hilton’s brief tenure with the Cowboys was not as statistically productive as his decade with the Colts, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Still, he is grateful that the Cowboys allowed him to play the game he loves.

“I also want to thank the Cowboys organization for giving me the opportunity to continue playing the game I love.”

Hilton joined the Cowboys in December 2022. However, he spent most of that season off the field. Even then, he made the most of limited chances, appearing in three games and turning 10 targets into seven catches for 121 yards.

Hilton’s retirement marks the end of a decorated career, and he now moves on to his next chapter.

While their time in Dallas was brief, both Wilson and Hilton leave the game as respected veterans, closing the book on productive careers that saw them reach the sport’s biggest stage.