Dallas Cowboys make surprise move to call up Aggie alum for opener against Eagles

Texas A&M football fans may get a glimpse of one of their own in tonight's big opener for the league.
Atlanta Falcons v Dallas Cowboys - NFL Preseason 2025
Atlanta Falcons v Dallas Cowboys - NFL Preseason 2025 | Sam Hodde/GettyImages

Texas A&M football alum Buddy Johnson has been called up to active status for the Dallas Cowboys ahead of tonight's showdown against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL season opener.

Johnson, a native of the Dallas area, has been on the roster for the Dallas Cowboys since he was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers, who drafted him back in 2021.

The four-year player for Texas A&M football came in as a safety/linebacker hybrid before officially dedicating himself to the linebacker position early on in his time in College Station. He was a Kevin Sumlin recruit, but really made his name under Mike Elko's defense in the Jimbo Fisher era, becoming a tackling machine for the Aggies in the banner 2020 season.

This could be Johnson's first opportunity to make an impact for the Cowboys, as he hasn't seen a whole lot of time on the field for America's team since joining up with them, but with the departure of Micah Parsons to Green Bay, there is an opening at the linebacker position.

Buddy Johnson called up from practice squad for Dallas Cowboys game against Philadelphia Eagles

Johnson was well-beloved in Aggieland, as many players who play significant time and stick around in College Station become. He has always been slightly undersized in the pantheon of SEC and pro linebackers, but his heady play and athletic gifts help him make up for that lack of size.

He made an impact with the Pittsburgh Steelers for some time, but was eventually released after a couple of years. He's bounced around a bit, but has made his home back in Dallas after some time.

Aggie fans everywhere watching tonight's game will be keeping a close eye on the field to catch a glimpse of the former A&M stalwart. Hopefully, Buddy sees some time and makes a play or two against the defending Super Bowl champion