Latest intel shuts the door on Dallas Cowboys trade rumors, as opportunities to add big-name players are running out
The Dallas Cowboys say talent acquisition is a year-round business. But chances are running out for them to add a difference-maker on defense. And the latest insider report closes the door on trade opportunity.
The Dallas Cowboys like to say talent acquisition is a year-round business. But the truth is they’re running out of chances to land difference-makers to the team. And the latest report from NFL insider Ian Rapoport confirms a potential target is now off the table.
Cowboys EDGE trade opportunity
For a while there, Arizona Cardinals edge rusher Josh Sweat appeared to be on the trade block. He missed OTAs despite being healthy and multiple reports indicated he wasn’t happy with the team.
That shouldn’t be a surprise considering not even projected starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett has shown up to the final week of OTAs.
But the Sweat trade conversation is being shut down. According to Rapoport, the standout edge rusher is not being traded.
“Not to the Packers or anywhere,” Rapoport added on social media. “Carry on.”
Earlier in the offseason, Jordan Schultz reported multiple teams called the Cardinals about Sweat’s availability. It is unclear if the Cowboys made an offer.
Recently, I wrote an article about why Sweat made sense for the Cowboys. Sweat, a former division rival playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, produced eight sacks per season from 2020-2024. In 2025, he recorded a career-high 12 sacks.
He could have brought certainty to a Cowboys edge rusher group with little of it. Going into the 2026 season, Dallas has upside at the position but plenty of question marks.
With Sweat on the rearview mirrors, unless it’s a shocker deal for Maxx Crosby (who they pursued earlier in the year), it seems like the Cowboys won’t be adding a difference-maker at the position before the season.
Cowboys EDGE overview
As of today, the Cowboys’ projected starters at EDGE are veteran Rashan Gary and second-year Donovan Ezeiruaku. First-round pick Malachi Lawrence should be a significant rookie contributor, particularly on passing downs being that his calling card is his pass rushing.
That should be a strong starting group, though questions exist. Can Gary be the version of himself that recorded seven sacks early in 2025 instead of the one that virtually disappeared later in the year? Can Ezeiruaku take the second-year leap?
The Cowboys also have Sam Williams as a rotational player, who is expected to be a better fit for Christian Parker’s scheme than he was for previous defensive coordinators. Third-round rookie LT Overton is expected to play inside and outside.
As for roster bubble players, the Cowboys have Marist Liufau, James Houston, Isaiah Land, and Tyrus Wheat competing for a spot on the team.