The Dallas Cowboys are focused on bolstering their defense this offseason.
On Tuesday, the team agreed to terms with safety P.J. Locke on a one-year contract worth $5 million. The former Texas Longhorn spent most of his professional career with the Denver Broncos, suiting up for the squad from 2019 to 2025.
Here are five things to know about Locke:
1. The basics
Cowboys
Position: Safety
Birthday: Feb. 12, 1997 (29 years old)
Hometown: Beaumont, TX
Height: 5-10 Weight: 202 pounds
College: Texas
2. A look at his time in Austin
Before he made it to the NFL, Locke built up his résumé at Texas. He played for the Longhorns from 2015-18, appearing in 47 games. He posted 163 total tackles throughout his collegiate career to go with 15 pass deflections, four forced fumbles, three interceptions and 1.5 sacks.
He played a key part in Texas’ 2019 Sugar Bowl win over Georgia, where he posted three tackles and an interception.
3. What’s his full name?
Locke’s full name is James Abner Locke III. Throughout his time in the NFL, his jersey has included the “Locke III” nameplate.
According to a 2024 article from The Colorado Gazette, Locke’s nickname is an homage to his father. Locke’s father was nicknamed “Pookie,” so his son went by “Pookie Junior.”
4. He once traveled in an RV to play in a game
Locke is dedicated to his craft. That’s evident in a 2023 article from ESPN.
According to Jeff Legwold, Locke spent 40 hours in an RV for a round trip to Detroit during the 2023 season. Locke initially left in the RV on a Friday afternoon, then made it to the team’s hotel Saturday afternoon in Detroit. He then played in Denver’s Saturday evening game against the Lions.
Locke traveled via RV due to a medical issue.
“The doctor said I shouldn’t fly, so I said let’s gas it up,’’ Locke told ESPN. “It definitely wasn’t ideal, but I chose to do it, prime time, we’re fighting to finish strong. But it was a lot of movies, game film, a little sleep and a long ride.’’
5. Career NFL stats
Locke has appeared in 90 NFL games over the last six years. He has compiled 174 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, five quarterback hits, four sacks and one interception.
His lone interception came in the 2023 season in a 19-17 win over the Green Bay Packers.
Find more Cowboys coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.