The Dallas Cowboys have always had an eye for hidden gems, and their 2026 undrafted free agent class is no exception. Today, we're putting defensive tackle Tommy Dunn Jr. from Kansas under the microscope—a player whose journey from a versatile high school recruit to a disruptive force in the trenches is worth watching.
Dunn's recruitment was anything but ordinary. He entered college as a three-star prospect, rated the No. 97 strong-side defensive end in the nation by 247Sports, but he wasn't just a one-trick pony. He also played tight end, showcasing the kind of athletic versatility that coaches love. When he arrived at Kansas in 2021, his first year was a quiet one—a redshirt season spent learning the ropes and developing his craft on the defensive line.
By 2022, Dunn was ready to make noise. He appeared in all 13 games, tallying nine tackles, two tackles for loss, and half a sack. His first big moment came against Tennessee Tech, where he recorded two solo tackles, including one for a loss. It was a sign of things to come.
The 2023 season saw Dunn's role expand even further. Playing in 12 games, he racked up 13 total tackles, nine solo stops, and 1.5 tackles for loss. He made his presence felt in key moments: a tackle for loss against Missouri State, his first career forced fumble at Nevada, and standout performances against BYU, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and Kansas State. That upset win over Oklahoma? Dunn was right in the middle of it, recording two solo tackles.
By 2024, Dunn had earned a starting spot at defensive tackle. He started seven of 11 games, finishing with 16 tackles, four tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and another forced fumble. His best outing came against UNLV, where he notched six total tackles, half a sack, and another tackle for loss. He was no longer just a rotational player—he was a force in the middle.
Dunn saved his best for last. In 2025, he started eight of 12 games and posted career highs across the board: 26 tackles, 12 solo stops, three tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and even a blocked kick. Highlights included a six-tackle performance at Missouri, a sack at UCF, and a tackle for loss that showed his relentless motor.
For Cowboys fans, Dunn represents the kind of high-motor, versatile defender who can develop into a reliable rotational piece. His journey from a raw recruit to a starting defensive tackle is a testament to his work ethic—and a reminder that the best finds often come after the draft.