Cowboys Suddenly “Reveal Their Hand” Before the NFL Draft – Brian Schottenheimer’s Visit Sparks Belief Dallas Has Already Chosen Its Secret Target

On February 13, 2026, President Donald Trump officially granted a presidential pardon to Nate Newton – the legendary former Offensive Guard of the Dallas Cowboys – along with four other former NFL players (Joe Klecko, Jamal Lewis, Travis Henry, and a posthumous pardon for Billy Cannon). This pardon completely erases his federal criminal record related to drug trafficking from 2002, following the 30 months (approximately 2.5 years) he served in federal prison. Newton, nicknamed "Big Nate" or "The Kitchen," was a cornerstone of "The Great Wall" – the iconic Dallas Cowboys offensive line that protected quarterback Troy Aikman and paved the way for running back Emmitt Smith during the team's dynasty in the 1990s. He played for the Cowboys from 1986 to 1998 (13 seasons), helping the team win three Super Bowl titles (XXVII in 1992, XXVIII in 1993, and XXX in 1995). His individual accolades include six Pro Bowl selections (1992–1996, 1998), two First-team All-Pro honors (1994, 1995), and a total of 198 games played (180 starts). He was inducted into the Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2022 for his college career at Florida A&M. The legal trouble stemmed from 2001–2002: Newton was arrested twice with large quantities of marijuana (213 pounds in Louisiana and 175 pounds plus $10,000 in cash in Texas). He pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal to avoid harsher penalties, receiving a 30-month federal prison sentence, a $25,000 fine, community service, and probation. This marked the peak of earlier drug-related issues dating back to the 1990s, but after his release, Newton publicly renounced his past, turned his life around, and became an active figure in Cowboys media and community work. The pardon was announced by White House pardon czar Alice Marie Johnson, and in a particularly touching moment, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones personally called Newton to deliver the news. Newton's immediate and emotional reaction on social media shocked and spread rapidly across the NFL community, highlighting themes of redemption and "second chances." On X (formerly Twitter) right after the announcement, Newton posted two heartfelt messages: I would like to personally Thank Mr. Jones for sharing that great news last night with Me of the Presidential Pardon I received . May God bless You, Mr. Jones and your Family Thank you my Friend!!! Nathaniel Newton Jr. — Nathaniel Newton Jr (@61NateNewton) February 13, 2026 In interviews (NBCDFW, DallasCowboys.com), Newton described being "stunned," sitting in silence for 30 seconds to a full minute when Jones called him with the news. He said he felt "truly blessed" and now "whole again." He emphasized the power of redemption: "You can make mistakes but once those mistakes happen and you start turning your life around... it shows years and years of doing things the right way." I would like to thank President Trump and all of those that work under him who put this Pardon into effect. Thank you Sir for taking time out of your busy day in running this country. Thank you Sincerely and may God bless You. 🙏🏿Nathaniel Newton Jr. — Nathaniel Newton Jr (@61NateNewton) February 13, 2026 Today, Newton remains a beloved figure on the Cowboys' podcast Hangin' with the Boys, where he has openly shared the full story of the pardon—including the emotional phone call from "one of his angels" (Jerry Jones). While the White House did not provide a detailed explanation for the decision, the move has sparked widespread discussion about second chances for former athletes, especially given Jones's close relationship with Trump. A dark chapter in Cowboys history has finally been fully cleared, and "Big Nate" continues to inspire with his story of transformation. The NFL—and Cowboys fans everywhere—are watching to see if this signals more stories of redemption to come.