Jonathan Mingo was enjoying a quiet Tuesday morning at home when his phone rang with unexpected news. It was Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan informing him he had been traded to the Dallas Cowboys.
“It kind of blindsided me because my agent said the chances were slim,” Mingo shared. “But that slim chance happened. I’m happy to be a Cowboy. Fresh start, new beginnings—God put me here for a reason.”
The Cowboys sent a 2025 fourth-round pick to Carolina in exchange for Mingo and a 2025 seventh-round pick. The deal was announced just minutes after Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hinted on 105.3 The Fan that Dallas was acquiring a wide receiver before the trade deadline. Now, Mingo gets a fresh start in his young NFL career.
“There were things I felt I could’ve done better in Carolina, like being more consistent,” Mingo admitted. “But I’m here now, ready to prove what I can do and show the best version of myself.”
Fresh Start in Dallas
Drafted 39th overall in 2023 out of Ole Miss, Mingo caught 55 passes for 539 yards in 24 games with the Panthers. Now, he joins a Cowboys offense without Dak Prescott, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, and a team sitting at 3-5 through nine weeks. Despite the struggles, Mingo is optimistic about fitting into Mike McCarthy’s play-calling system.
“I like how he moves people around,” Mingo said of McCarthy’s strategy. “They know how to use their receivers and put them in the best position to win. Dak’s a cool guy, even though he’s hurt. Everyone here seems great, so I’m excited to be part of this team.”
Mingo practiced with the Cowboys for the first time on Thursday after completing his onboarding process. He’s focused on acclimating quickly and finding his rhythm.
“Practice went well,” Mingo said. “Just getting used to the flow of things and getting comfortable.”
A Unique Skill Set
Standing at 6’2” and weighing 220 pounds, Mingo is tied with CeeDee Lamb as the tallest receiver on the Cowboys roster and is the heaviest by 15 pounds. He clocked a 4.46-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, showing off his impressive speed for his size. He hopes to use his physical traits to challenge defenses.
“I try to be a physical receiver—physical and fast,” Mingo explained. “I use my size and strength to my advantage. Once I get in my groove, I can show people what I can do.”
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy noted the team’s high opinion of Mingo during the draft process, which played a role in the decision to trade for him.
“You’ve got to trust the draft process,” McCarthy said. “We definitely liked Mingo back then. He has a lot of characteristics we look for, and we’re excited to have him here.”
Facing His Favorite Receiver
Mingo’s first game as a Cowboy will be a special one. He’ll suit up against the Eagles, where he’ll face his favorite player, fellow Ole Miss alum A.J. Brown.
“A.J.’s my favorite receiver,” Mingo said. “I watch his highlights all the time and try to take things from his game. It’s going to be fun playing against him twice a year.”
As things settle down, Mingo is feeling at home with his new team and looking forward to what’s ahead.
“I’m happy to be here,” Mingo said. “I appreciate the Panthers for giving me a chance, but God had a different plan for me. I’m ready to make the most of this opportunity.”
