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Shiyazh Pete Becomes First Navajo Player Signed to an NFL Team

A standing ovation in Phoenix and preseason snaps have raised his profile as he competes for a Cowboys roster spot.

Overview

  • Pete signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent after finishing his college career at New Mexico State and Kentucky.
  • The Cowboys list him as the third-team right guard on their official depth chart, placing him behind established interior linemen as he vies for one of five or six active spots.
  • He has taken preseason snaps, including in Dallas’s 17-7 win over Seattle, giving coaches game tape to evaluate his transition from college tackle to NFL guard.
  • A large contingent of Navajo fans gave Pete a notable standing ovation in Phoenix on Saturday and he followed the moment with an emotional locker-room speech to teammates.
  • Pete’s path—from a COVID-cancelled high school season to walking on at New Mexico State, transferring to Kentucky and earning a Hula Bowl invite—underscores why his signing and public support matter for Native American representation, and reports of a three-year, $3.1 million UDFA contract remain provisional.