The Dallas Cowboys have delivered a gut punch, cutting offensive lineman Shiyazh Pete, who made history as the first Navajo to sign with an NFL team. This isn’t just another roster move, this is a surprising turn for a player who was already making waves and captivating fans with his incredible story.
From Locker Room Inspiration to Roster Casualty
Pete wasn’t just some camp body, man. He earned national attention earlier this preseason when he helped block for a Cowboys rushing touchdown in a game against the Arizona Cardinals. The crowd, especially the pro-Navajo contingent in Arizona, erupted for him, and even the Cowboys bench went wild. How often do you see an offensive lineman get that kind of love? His celebrity rose even higher when head coach Brian Schottenheimer called on Pete to deliver a speech to the entire Cowboys locker room. Pete stood up and delivered a powerful message that should resonate with any team: “This game, fate, brought us here as strangers, but this game, this star, this team, will make us brothers.” Talk about inspiring! You’d think a guy who can perform and unite a locker room would be a lock, but this is the NFL.
A Journey From Walk-On to Hula Bowl Invite
Pete’s path to the NFL was already the stuff of legends. This dude is a massive 6-foot-8, 322-pound force. He started his college career at New Mexico State as a preferred walk-on, redshirting in 2022. Then, he locked down the starting left tackle spot for three straight seasons, even contributing to a 10-win team in 2024. For his final year of eligibility in 2025, Pete transferred to Kentucky, where he kept up his starting streak, playing all 12 games and earning an invitation to the prestigious Hula Bowl. Think about that journey: from a walk-on who didn’t know much about college life outside his reservation to a D-I starter and Hula Bowl participant. He told 600 ESPN El Paso: “When I first got [to New Mexico State], I didn’t know too much about the world of football, the world of college life, outside of the reservation. To think I’d be here now, five years into the future, just because I play the game of football, and I get to do these opportunities now, and be a part of something great and large , it’s a privilege. It’s a testament to how much hard work really pays off.” What an incredible statement about perseverance.
What’s Next for Pete After This Unexpected Cut?
Born on the Flathead Indian Reservation in Roanan, Montana, Pete’s football journey began in seventh grade. He moved to Shiprock High School in New Mexico as a sophomore, continuing to hone his skills. Even after going undrafted in 2026, the Cowboys recognized his talent, signing him as an undrafted free agent to a three-year deal. He competed as a third-stringer during the 2026 preseason, playing in all three exhibition contests and showing versatility at both right tackle and guard. The dream isn’t dead for Pete, not yet. If he clears waivers, he could still land on Dallas’ practice squad. This cut is a tough break, but you can bet a player with his drive, talent, and inspirational story won’t stay down for long. We’ll be watching to see where he lands next.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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