Dallas Cowboys Shift Focus to Free Agency After Missed Trade for Maxx Crosby

The Dallas Cowboys made a significant trade offer for Maxx Crosby, a five-time Pro Bowl defensive end with the Las Vegas Raiders, but ultimately failed to secure his services. The Raiders traded Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for two first-round picks. Reports indicate that the Cowboys were unwilling to part with two first-round selections, instead proposing their 12th pick in the upcoming draft along with a future second-rounder. Additionally, the Cowboys considered including a veteran player to enhance their offer, but the Raiders prioritized draft picks over player trades.

Sports IllustratedReport: Dallas Cowboys unwilling to give up two first-round picks for Maxx CrosbyHeavyNewsweek

The Cowboys' pursuit of Crosby comes in the context of their need for a strong pass rusher, especially after trading edge-rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers for two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark. With the Cowboys aiming to return to Super Bowl contention, they are now exploring other options in free agency to bolster their defensive line.

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Following the unsuccessful trade for Crosby, the Cowboys have turned their attention to several potential free-agent pass rushers. Notably, Trey Hendrickson, formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals, has emerged as a primary target. Hendrickson has a strong track record, having led the league in sacks in 2023 and 2024, although injuries limited his performance in the 2025 season. His projected market value is over $25 million annually.

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Other candidates include Odafe Oweh, who had a productive season split between the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers, and Jaelan Phillips, who played for both the Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles. Oweh is projected to command around $19.3 million per season, while Phillips is estimated at $17.3 million per season.

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NFL insider Jeremy Fowler noted that the Cowboys were firm in their stance regarding draft picks, stating, "Dallas kept a hard line throughout. The franchise wasn't willing to part with two first-round picks." This sentiment reflects the Cowboys' strategy to maintain their draft capital while seeking to improve their roster through free agency.

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Critics of the Cowboys' approach argue that their reluctance to meet the Raiders' asking price for Crosby may hinder their chances of competing at a high level. The Cowboys' decision to trade Parsons has raised concerns about their defensive depth, making the need for a high-caliber pass rusher even more pressing.

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As the NFL free agency period approaches, the Cowboys are expected to be aggressive in their pursuit of a pass rusher. With a focus on players like Trey Hendrickson, Odafe Oweh, and Jaelan Phillips, the Cowboys aim to enhance their defense without sacrificing their valuable draft picks. The outcome of these efforts will be crucial for the team's aspirations in the upcoming season.

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