Cowboys explore defensive trades
What happened
The Dallas Cowboys are revisiting a trade for Maxx Crosby and exploring options with the Steelers for a veteran linebacker to bolster their defense.
Why it matters
The Cowboys' interest in Crosby isn't new, as they reportedly inquired about him before the 2022 trade deadline. However, the Raiders' asking price was too high at the time, and it remains to be seen if Dallas is willing to meet it now. Dallas's linebacking corps struggled in 2025, making a trade for a veteran like Myles Jack or Kwon Alexander a potential upgrade. Both Jack and Alexander have experience and could provide leadership to a relatively young Cowboys defense. Any trade would have to fit within the Cowboys' salary cap situation, especially with extensions for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb on the horizon. The team may need to shed salary elsewhere to make room for new additions.
Key numbers
- The Cowboys' interest in Crosby isn't new, as they reportedly inquired about him before the 2022 trade deadline.
- Dallas's linebacking corps struggled in 2025, making a trade for a veteran like Myles Jack or Kwon Alexander a potential upgrade.
What happens next
- Both Jack and Alexander have experience and could provide leadership to a relatively young Cowboys defense.
- The team may need to shed salary elsewhere to make room for new additions.
Sources
Quick answers
What happened in Cowboys explore defensive trades?
The Dallas Cowboys are revisiting a trade for Maxx Crosby and exploring options with the Steelers for a veteran linebacker to bolster their defense.
Why does Cowboys explore defensive trades matter?
The Cowboys' interest in Crosby isn't new, as they reportedly inquired about him before the 2022 trade deadline. However, the Raiders' asking price was too high at the time, and it remains to be seen if Dallas is willing to meet it now. Dallas's linebacking corps struggled in 2025, making a trade for a veteran like Myles Jack or Kwon Alexander a potential upgrade. Both Jack and Alexander have experience and could provide leadership to a relatively young Cowboys defense. Any trade would have to fit within the Cowboys' salary cap situation, especially with extensions for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb on the horizon. The team may need to shed salary elsewhere to make room for new additions.
