The Dallas Cowboys have officially cut offensive lineman Shiyazh Pete, the first Navajo player ever to sign with an NFL team. This isn’t just a routine roster move; Pete quickly became a national story through preseason, inspiring many with his journey and a truly incredible path to the pros. It’s a gut punch to see him go, especially after the impact he made.
From Preseason Cheers To A Locker Room Speech: The Rise of Shiyazh Pete
Pete truly earned national attention during the preseason, making waves when he helped block for a Cowboys rushing touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals. The moment sparked a massive ovation, not just from the Dallas bench, but from a deeply pro-Navajo crowd in Arizona. His celebrity soared even higher after head coach Brian Schottenheimer called on Pete to deliver a speech to the entire Cowboys locker room. Pete’s words resonated, “This game, fate, brought us here as strangers, but this game, this star, this team, will make us brothers.” This 6-foot-8, 322-pound lineman showed everyone he wasn’t just a big body, but a leader.
From Walk-On To The Hula Bowl: Pete’s Unwavering Path
Pete’s path to the NFL was a grind. He kicked off his college career at New Mexico State as a preferred walk-on, redshirting in 2022 before locking down the left tackle spot for three seasons, even being part of a 10-win squad in 2024. For his final year of eligibility in 2025, he transferred to Kentucky, starting all 12 games and earning an invite to the prestigious Hula Bowl. Despite going undrafted in 2026, the Cowboys snatched him up immediately as an undrafted free agent on a three-year deal. He was fighting as a third-stringer, playing in all three exhibition contests, listed at both right tackle and guard. Draft analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic described Pete as having “Rare size. Adequate athlete. Adequate strength. Below average power/anchor. Relies on size to cover up and sustain. Camp body who will fight for a PS spot,” with a scout adding, “Most polite kid I had in my area. Staff challenged him to be more of a prick. Super humble and coachable. His teammates love him.”
Pete’s Own Words Tell The Story, And What Happens Next
Born on the Flathead Indian Reservation in Roanan, Montana, Pete started playing football in seventh grade. His own words to 600 ESPN El Paso during Cowboys training camp sum up his journey perfectly: “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.” The Cowboys are making tough final roster decisions, but don’t count Pete out just yet. If he clears waivers, a practice squad spot in Dallas is absolutely still on the table for this inspiring talent. His story has already defied so many odds, and we’re all watching to see what chapter comes next for the first Navajo NFL player.
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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