Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Washington Commanders helmet at State Farm Stadium. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Michael Gallup is back in the NFL and in a place, Dallas Cowboys fans won’t love.

After stepping away from football in 2024, the former Cowboys wide receiver has signed with the Washington Commanders, rekindling his career with a division rival. Once seen as a key piece in Dallas’ offense, Gallup has a fresh opportunity to prove himself in Washington.

Gallup’s career has been a story of potential and setbacks. He broke out in 2019 with 1,107 receiving yards, but injuries hampered his ability to sustain that production level. From 2021 to 2023, he failed to eclipse 500 yards in a season, leading to his eventual release from Dallas. A brief stint with the Las Vegas Raiders followed, but before he could even step on the field, Michael Gallup retired at just 29. Now, he’s making an unexpected return.

Fresh Start In Washington

Ex- Dallas Cowboys WR Michael Gallup Washington CommandersMichael Gallup (Photo By Eric Hartline-Imagn Images)
Michael Gallup’s arrival in Washington adds another former Cowboy to the roster of new head coach Dan Quinn, who was previously Dallas’ defensive coordinator. Quinn has already brought in multiple ex-Cowboys, and Gallup becomes the latest addition to that growing list.

The Commanders’ wide receiver group is led by Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, with another former Cowboy, Noah Brown, also in the mix. Gallup will have to fight for playing time, but if he can regain his old form, he could become a valuable asset in Washington’s offense.

Before signing, Gallup met with the Commanders and had a visit scheduled with the Seattle Seahawks. His decision to join Washington suggests he sees an opportunity to carve out a role despite the competition.

Meanwhile, the Cowboys are still searching for a reliable No. 2 option behind CeeDee Lamb. Dallas has been quiet in free agency, leaving the NFL Draft as the likely avenue to address their receiving corps. Michael Gallup’s move to Washington only adds more intrigue to the NFC East, as he now looks to prove his former team wrong from the other side of the rivalry.