Key Highlights
- The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly considering blockbuster trades to bolster their defense at the trade deadline.
- Elite edge rusher Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders has been linked as a potential target for the Cowboys.
- Crosby is one of the NFL’s top pass rushers, with multiple Pro Bowls and Second-Team All-Pro honors to his name.
- The trade could require significant assets from Dallas, including at least one first-round draft pick and a large contract.
Trade Deadline Heating Up for the Dallas Cowboys
The NFL is entering its busiest time of year, with teams gearing up to make crucial moves before the trade deadline on November 4. The Dallas Cowboys are no exception, as reports suggest they are actively exploring potential blockbuster trades to strengthen their defense.
Maxx Crosby: A Top Target
The Cowboys have reportedly inquired about acquiring defensive end Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders, according to NFL insider Trey Wingo. Crosby is one of the league’s premier pass rushers, boasting a decorated career with multiple Pro Bowl and Second-Team All-Pro selections. His presence could significantly bolster the Dallas defense.
“I would say that the Dallas Cowboys are having conversations about moves they can make before the trade deadline to try to improve their defense,” noted ESPN analyst Adam Schefter on his podcast. “They’ve been linked by multiple NFL insiders, and it’s looking increasingly likely that they’ll be buyers at the deadline.”
Complexities of a Potential Trade
A trade for Crosby would come with considerable challenges. Crosby is under contract through 2029, including $30 million in guaranteed salary for the 2026 season. According to Over the Cap, trading for him would likely require Dallas to part with at least one first-round draft pick.
“There’s not many people covering the Raiders that believe Maxx Crosby will be traded,” said Justin Churchill, a Las Vegas Raiders expert and A to Z Sports contributor. “Of course, as the season goes on and the team gets worse, that could start to change. But Crosby is a Raider through and through, embodying what it means to be a Raider.”
Other Potential Targets
Beyond Crosby, industry insiders suggest the Cowboys may continue to explore other high-profile trades. Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports reported that Dallas could be in the mix for plus-sized talents like Cincinnati Bengals’ Trey Hendrickson or Tennessee Titans’ Jeffery Simmons if they remain in playoff contention at the end of October.
“This offseason, the Raiders made Crosby the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league,” Churchill continued. “Owner Mark Davis loves him and wants him to be in silver and black for his entire career. The only way I could see this happening is if Crosby demands a trade, which would put both head coach Pete Carroll’s and general manager John Spytek’s jobs on the line.”
Despite these challenges, the Cowboys’ front office has shown a willingness to explore significant moves to improve their defense. With the team at 3-3-1, they are within striking distance of playoff contention, making such trades more plausible.
