The Dallas Cowboys have repeatedly teased the fanbase by suggesting they need to get a "playmaker" this offseason. 

And while the front office is notoriously known for approaching team-building conservatively every year, there are a couple of signs that hint at them being serious this time.

Firstly, the Cowboys hosted Odell Beckham Jr. last season as they evaluated him as a potential free agent addition late in the year. OBJ's health kept that from happening as the standout wide receiver didn't sign with any NFL team.

Secondly, there are reports about the Cowboys being interested in DeAndre Hopkins, who's expected to be traded from the Arizona Cardinals. Johnny Venerable from the PHNX Cardinals reported the Cowboys are monitoring the possibility.

As the Cardinals expect Kyler Murray to miss time following a late-season injury, they're expected to be one of the worst teams in the entire NFL in 2023. In fact, their betting odds to win the Super Bowl next season are tied for last with the Houston Texans.

By trading Hopkins, they could get some draft capital compensation as well as get rid of the veteran's contract which is set to count $30 million against the cap. Of course, the deal can be restructured (and likely will be) to lower such a number.

But NFL Network's insider Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday that Hopkins would be flexible on the last two years of his deal if he is traded away. Per the reporter, the elite wide receiver wouldn't be looking to become one of the highest-paid at his position. 

#AZCardinals WR DeAndre Hopkins admitted on @PatMcAfeeShow that he’s “been hearing a lot of trade talks.” On that subject, my understanding is if a trade did happen, he’d be flexible on the last two years of his contract – rather than shoot for a top-of-the-market deal.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 8, 2023

The Cowboys usually shy away from big moves because of financial reasons. But if Hopkins is willing to strike a team-friendly deal for whichever franchise trades for him, perhaps the Jones can be persuaded.

DeAndre Hopkins is still the real deal

Despite being suspended to start the season last year, Hopkins proved he can still make a huge impact on a team like the Cowboys. Since his return midseason, he ranked:

• 3rd in targets
• 4th in receptions
• 6th in explosive receptions per PFF.

What's even better, the Cowboys do not need him to be a true WR1. After all, they've already got CeeDee Lamb. Mike McCarthy would immediately boast one of the best WR duos in the entire league. 

One thing is clear: The team must address the wide receiver position. They learned such a lesson the hard way when Lamb was the only legitimate threat opposing secondaries had to worry about.

Keep in mind, taking a wide receiver in the Draft – even if it's in the first round – is unlikely to make a difference right away. 

One of the best alternatives out there has to be  DeAndre Hopkins. At the very least, the Cowboys must make an effort to land his services.