Cowboys Trade Deadline: Latest News & Predictions
Hey there, Cowboys fans! It's that time of year again – the NFL trade deadline is looming, and everyone's wondering what moves, if any, America's Team will make. The Dallas Cowboys, as always, are a team under the microscope, and with their current roster construction and aspirations for a Super Bowl run, the trade deadline becomes even more crucial. So, let's dive into the latest news, rumors, and predictions surrounding the Cowboys as the trade deadline approaches.
Analyzing the Cowboys' Current Needs
Before we jump into potential trades, let's break down the Cowboys' current needs. Understanding these gaps is essential to predicting what positions they might target and which players could be on their radar.
- Offensive Line Depth: Injuries have plagued the Cowboys' offensive line in recent years, and this season is no different. While the starters, when healthy, are among the best in the league, the depth behind them is a major concern. A versatile offensive lineman who can play multiple positions would be a huge asset.
 - Wide Receiver: CeeDee Lamb is a certified WR1, but beyond him, the Cowboys could use another reliable target. Michael Gallup has shown flashes, but consistency has been an issue. Adding a receiver with good hands and route-running ability would take pressure off Lamb and open up the passing game.
 - Cornerback: Trevon Diggs' injury has left a big hole in the Cowboys' secondary. While DaRon Bland has stepped up admirably, adding another cornerback with starting potential would provide much-needed insurance and allow the Cowboys to match up better against opposing offenses.
 - Linebacker Depth: The Cowboys are pretty solid at linebacker with Micah Parsons, Damone Clark, and Leighton Vander Esch, but as we all know, injuries can happen at any time. Reinforcing the linebacker corps with a dependable player would provide depth and special teams help.
 
These are the main areas where the Cowboys could look to improve via trade. Now, let's explore some potential trade targets.
Potential Trade Targets for the Cowboys
Okay, guys, let's get into the fun part: speculating about potential trade targets! Remember, these are just possibilities, and a lot depends on what other teams are willing to offer and what the Cowboys' front office is willing to give up. Here are a few names that have been mentioned or that make sense based on the Cowboys' needs:
- Offensive Line:
- Dalton Risner (Minnesota Vikings): Risner is a proven guard who could provide immediate depth and even compete for a starting job. He's on a one-year deal, so the Vikings might be willing to move him for the right price.
 - Jonah Jackson (Detroit Lions): Jackson is a young, talented guard who's in the final year of his rookie contract. The Lions might be hesitant to trade him, but if the Cowboys offer a valuable pick, they might consider it.
 
 - Wide Receiver:
- Jerry Jeudy (Denver Broncos): Jeudy has the potential to be a star, but he hasn't quite lived up to expectations in Denver. A change of scenery could be just what he needs, and the Cowboys could offer him a fresh start. The Broncos may be willing to listen to offers.
 - Elijah Moore (Cleveland Browns): Moore had a promising rookie season with the Jets but has been underutilized in Cleveland. He's a speedy receiver with good hands, and the Cowboys could use his skillset.
 
 - Cornerback:
- Patrick Surtain II (Denver Broncos): Acquiring Surtain II would be a blockbuster move! He is one of the best young corners in the league. The Broncos may consider if the Cowboys are willing to give up significant draft capital and possibly a player.
 - Jaylon Johnson (Chicago Bears): Johnson is a physical cornerback who excels in press coverage. The Bears are rebuilding, and Johnson could be a valuable trade chip.
 
 
Players the Cowboys Might Trade Away
Trades aren't just about acquiring players; they're also about potentially moving on from guys who aren't fitting the team's long-term plans. Here are a few Cowboys players who could be on the trade block:
- Kelvin Joseph (Cornerback): Joseph hasn't developed as the Cowboys had hoped, and he's fallen down the depth chart. A change of scenery could benefit him, and the Cowboys might be willing to part ways with him for a late-round pick.
 - Noah Brown (Wide Receiver): Brown has been a solid contributor on special teams and as a depth receiver, but he's unlikely to be a long-term part of the Cowboys' plans. He could be a valuable asset for a team looking for special teams help.
 
The Cowboys' Trade Deadline Philosophy
So, what's the Cowboys' usual approach to the trade deadline? Generally, they're not a team that makes huge, splashy moves. They prefer to build through the draft and develop their own players. However, they're also not afraid to make smaller, more targeted trades if they believe it will improve the team.
Historically, the Cowboys have been more likely to make trades for depth pieces or to address specific needs rather than to acquire a superstar. They value draft picks and are hesitant to give up too much draft capital for a player who might only be a short-term solution. However, with their current Super Bowl aspirations, they might be more willing to be aggressive this year.
Predicting the Cowboys' Trade Deadline Moves
Alright, let's put on our prediction hats! Based on everything we've discussed, here's what I think the Cowboys will do at the trade deadline:
- I predict they will make at least one trade. The Cowboys have clear needs, and they have the cap space and draft capital to make a move. I think they'll prioritize adding depth on the offensive line or at cornerback.
 - I don't think they'll make a blockbuster trade. While the idea of acquiring a player like Jerry Jeudy is enticing, I don't think the Cowboys will be willing to pay the price. They'll likely target players who are more affordable and who can contribute without requiring a significant investment.
 - I think they'll be more likely to trade a player than to acquire one. The Cowboys have a few players who are unlikely to be a part of their long-term plans, and they could look to move them for draft picks.
 
The Impact of Potential Trades on the Cowboys' Super Bowl Chances
Ultimately, the goal of any trade is to improve the team's chances of winning a Super Bowl. So, how could potential trades impact the Cowboys' Super Bowl aspirations?
- Adding Offensive Line Depth: This would be a huge boost, especially if the Cowboys suffer any more injuries to their starters. A reliable backup offensive lineman could be the difference between a successful drive and a drive-killing sack.
 - Adding a Wide Receiver: This would take pressure off CeeDee Lamb and open up the passing game. It would also give Dak Prescott another reliable target in the red zone.
 - Adding a Cornerback: This would improve the Cowboys' secondary and allow them to match up better against opposing offenses. It would also provide much-needed insurance in case of injuries.
 
Any of these moves would improve the Cowboys' chances of making a deep playoff run. However, it's important to remember that trades are not a guaranteed path to success. The players acquired still need to perform, and the team needs to continue to improve in other areas.
Final Thoughts
The NFL trade deadline is always an exciting time, and this year is no different for the Dallas Cowboys. With clear needs and Super Bowl aspirations, the Cowboys could be active in the trade market. Whether they make a big splash or a more subtle move, it will be fascinating to see what they do. So, stay tuned, Cowboys fans, and get ready for some potential fireworks! Let's hope whatever moves they make help propel America's Team to the promised land!
What do you guys think? What moves should the Cowboys make at the trade deadline? Let me know in the comments below!