The Dallas Cowboys have once again found themselves at the center of trade speculation regarding Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby. This renewed interest comes on the heels of the Cowboys' recent salary cap maneuvers, which have created a significant amount of financial flexibility for the team.
Earlier this offseason, the Cowboys were considered strong contenders to acquire Crosby, a two-time Pro Bowler. However, those plans seemed to falter when the Baltimore Ravens initially agreed to a deal for the defensive standout, only to back out at the last moment. Since then, the trade buzz surrounding Crosby had diminished, but recent developments have reignited discussions.
On Thursday, the Cowboys undertook a series of salary cap restructures that have led many to speculate that they might be preparing to make a move for Crosby. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, the team restructured contracts for several key players, including Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark, two-time Pro Bowl tight end Jake Ferguson, and All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland. These adjustments have opened up approximately $19 million in cap space, bringing the team’s total to about $33 million.
With this newfound financial room, insiders are considering the possibility that the Cowboys are positioning themselves for a significant trade ahead of the deadline later this season. Archer noted that the restructuring could allow the Cowboys to absorb a veteran contract, which could include Crosby, who is set to earn a base salary of $30 million in 2026.
Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the Cowboys now have ample cap space to take on a high-profile contract. He pointed out that the team's recent moves could be a precursor to acquiring a player of Crosby's caliber, especially given the Raiders' previous asking price of two first-round picks for the defensive end.
The Cowboys have been actively seeking solutions to their pass-rush challenges, particularly after trading away All-Pro Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers last season. Last year, the team struggled to generate pressure, with only two players registering more than 3.5 sacks. The departure of Jadeveon Clowney, who led the team with 8.5 sacks, and Osa Odighizuwa, who excelled in pressures, further compounded their issues.
In an effort to bolster their pass-rushing capabilities, the Cowboys made several strategic moves this offseason, including acquiring Pro Bowler Rashan Gary and signing former All-Pro Von Miller. Additionally, they drafted promising talents Malachi Lawrence and Jaishawn Barham in the first and third rounds of the 2026 draft, respectively. However, the addition of Crosby would not only enhance their pass-rushing unit but could potentially restore it to elite status. The 29-year-old has consistently demonstrated his prowess, achieving double-digit sacks in three of the last four seasons and recording over 50 pressures each year for the past five seasons, according to Pro Football Focus.
While the prospect of acquiring Crosby is enticing for the Cowboys, it is important to note that such a deal would likely come at a steep cost. The Ravens' initial offer included two first-round picks, and it is reasonable to assume that the Raiders would seek a similar return if they decide to part ways with their star defensive end.
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