Cowboys Trade Targets: 7 Players Dallas Could Pursue at Nfl Trade Deadline

Trading Ahead of the Deadline: Dallas Cowboys’ Defensive Targets

The Dallas Cowboys, currently playing in their Week 9 match against the Arizona Cardinals on “Monday Night Football,” face a crucial decision as they approach the 2025 NFL trade deadline. Less than 24 hours after this high-stakes game concludes, Jerry Jones and his brain trust will need to make strategic moves to strengthen their team’s defense.

Pass Rush Targets

The Cowboys are looking for a pass rusher, as the absence of Micah Parsons has left them struggling on that front. Bradley Chubb of the Miami Dolphins is one potential target. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Dallas team is interested in acquiring a pass rusher ahead of the deadline.

Chubb, who is under contract through 2027 and has a base salary of $19.45 million for next season, could be a reasonable price point for the Cowboys.

He has already provided 25 pressures this season, seven more than any current player on Dallas’ roster.

Another option, according to USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon, is Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals. Although the Bengals are unlikely to trade their star edge rusher due to his expiring contract and recent performance, the Cowboys could consider him a long-term replacement for Parsons at a lower cost.

Linebacker Depth

The Cowboys may also look at strengthening their linebacker position with Logan Wilson or Jermaine Johnson. Logan Wilson has requested a trade from the Bengals and remains a quality downhill linebacker who can still produce 100-plus tackles in consecutive seasons. The Cowboys could use an upgrade here, as Kenneth Murray Jr., their primary starter, ranks poorly among his peers.

Jermaine Johnson, on the other hand, offers more of a long-term solution due to his age and potential for improvement with a change of scenery. Johnson has generated 7.5 sacks in his breakout second season but is currently dealing with injuries and playing fewer games.

Other Potential Trades

The Dallas Cowboys could also consider trading for Arden Key, who remains effective despite being on an expiring contract. While he offers depth to the edge rusher position, the immediate need might be more pronounced at linebacker or pass rusher.

In addition, Riq Woolen of the Seattle Seahawks is another potential target. Although the Seahawks are unlikely to move him given their strong performance, Woolen’s decline in defensive coverage could make a change beneficial for Dallas if he becomes available.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL trade deadline will be critical for Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys as they look to bolster their defense. The team is 3-4-1 after trading Micah Parsons, and securing a top pass rusher or linebacker could significantly improve their chances in the NFC East and wild-card races.

As the Monday night game against the Arizona Cardinals concludes, Jerry Jones and his staff will have less than 24 hours to make tough decisions that could shape the rest of the season for the Dallas Cowboys.