Three Realistic Trade Targets for the Dallas Cowboys Ahead of 2026 Season
The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 season with high expectations but a roster that still needs key additions to compete with the NFL’s best. Recent rumors suggest the team could be active in the trade market before the season begins. Here are three realistic targets to watch.
1. Maxx Crosby (Edge Rusher, Las Vegas Raiders)
Maxx Crosby is the biggest name with any realistic chance of being dealt prior to Week 1. The Cowboys have had major offers on the table, including significant draft capital. Jerry Jones would need to put up a similar offer to entice the Raiders to trade their star pass rusher this late in the offseason.
2. Shedeur Sanders (Quarterback, Cleveland Browns)
Shedeur Sanders has recently been connected to the Cowboys in trade rumors. This would come in the event that he loses the battle to Deshaun Watson for the starting job in Cleveland. While it may not make complete football sense, the intrigue of adding the young quarterback would be undeniable.
3. Alex Highsmith (Linebacker, Pittsburgh Steelers)
Alex Highsmith is one of the most underrated players in the NFL. He has carried the Steelers defense at various times in recent years and is on a very good contract for his impact. At 28 years old, he still has plenty left to give. Adding him under defensive coordinator Christian Parker would be a significant boost for Dallas.
Final Thoughts
The Cowboys are once again in a position where they need to make a move to have a chance to compete. Two of these trade rumors would really help form that defense into one of the league’s best. The Sanders speculation is more or less just that — speculation. The coming weeks will reveal whether Dallas makes a splash before the season starts.