The Dallas Cowboys have been busy this offseason reshaping their defense, and their latest move—trading for linebacker Dee Winters during last weekend's draft—has certainly turned heads. For Winters, a Texas native who starred at TCU, the news came as a complete surprise.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Winters revealed that he was in the middle of moving into his new home in Arlington when he got the call about the trade. "Honestly, I wasn't expecting it at all," he said, via Jon Machota of TheAthletic.com. "Everything happens for a reason. I'm excited to be back home, and I get to play for the Dallas Cowboys."

The Cowboys are expected to slot Winters in as their middle linebacker, though he admitted he's still figuring out the details of his role. What he does know is that the defensive scheme feels like a perfect fit. "I like that it will have me move in open space," Winters explained. "That's where I thrive."

One new challenge awaits: taking on the "green dot" role, where the defensive coordinator's play calls are relayed directly into his helmet. "I've only done a few practices with the green dot," Winters said. "That'll be new, but there's a first time for everything. I'm willing to do whatever it takes."

With 2026 marking the final year of his rookie contract, the stakes couldn't be higher. "This is where you help your family and your football career," Winters said. "I think this is a huge year for me. I'm excited to work in this scheme, be in space, and make plays. That's the biggest thing."

Last season with the 49ers, Winters started all 17 games and put up impressive numbers: 101 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, three QB hits, five passes defensed, and an interception. Now back in his home state, he's ready to prove he belongs in Dallas.