Dallas Cowboys Explore Trades for Top Pass Rushers to Boost Defense

The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking to improve their struggling defense before the NFL trade deadline, having contacted teams about acquiring defensive ends Maxx Crosby and Trey Hendrickson, though both inquiries were reportedly declined. Hendrickson, a top pass-rusher with 17.5 sacks over the past two seasons and a high Pro Football Focus grade, represents a significant potential upgrade, but the Cowboys face challenges regarding trade cost and negotiations. Meanwhile, the Cowboys released wide receiver Jalen Brooks due to a knee injury, reducing their 2023 draft class presence to three players; however, the receiving corps is strong with the returns of CeeDee Lamb and KaVontae Turpin, as well as standout performances from George Pickens. Owner Jerry Jones and the front office are determined to find an impact defensive player to complement the team's potent offense led by Dak Prescott. The Cowboys' urgency to bolster their defense reflects a desire to shift from playoff hopefuls to true contenders in the 2025 NFL season.