As the NFL trade deadline approached, the Dallas Cowboys made one of the most fitting moves of the season, acquiring former Wyoming Cowboys superstar, linebacker Logan Wilson, from the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for a seventh-round pick.
Logan Wilson’s Journey Comes Full Circle as He Joins the Dallas Cowboys
The news broke early Tuesday morning, reported by NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter, just hours before the 4 p.m. ET deadline. Rapoport posted on X:
“Trade: The Bengals are dealing standout LB Logan Wilson to the #Cowboys, sources say, providing immediate defensive help. Wilson requested a trade amid a recent decrease in snaps, with Barrett Carter taking over.”
The deal comes less than 24 hours after the Cowboys’ disappointing 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, a defeat that exposed the team’s defensive inconsistencies. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones hinted Monday that something could be brewing behind the scenes.
“We could conceivably see something that we ought to do, in spite of tonight,” Jones told reporters after the loss. “And the answer to your question: There is no trade right now. … But there is one I can do. Without question, there is one I can do, and I’m leaning toward doing it.”
Jones delivered on that promise that the Cowboys now add a defensive leader with proven production and leadership qualities, traits that align perfectly with what Jones said Dallas “needs right now.”
“He knows how to get in the gaps,” Jones told 105.3 The Fan on Tuesday. “For what we need right now, he can come in immediately right now and help us.”
The Cowboys sit at 3-5-1, and Jones’ decision reflects an urgent push to stabilize a defense that has struggled to meet expectations. Wilson’s arrival provides immediate depth, especially after rumors had linked Dallas to several high-profile pass rushers, including Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby, in recent weeks.
From Casper to Cowboys: A Perfect Fit for “The Cowboy”
Wilson’s story feels poetic. A native of Casper, Wyoming, the 29-year-old linebacker earned his nickname, “The Cowboy,” long before donning the Dallas star. At the University of Wyoming, he was a local legend, known for his leadership, consistency, and relentless tackling ability.
During his college career, Wilson started every game, 39 consecutive starts, and amassed 316 career tackles. He led Wyoming in tackles for multiple seasons, recording 119 in 2017 and 103 in 2018, while also adding versatility with interceptions and defensive touchdowns.
Wilson’s collegiate honors include 2016 Mountain West Conference Freshman of the Year, 2017 Second-Team All-Mountain West, among other achievements in his collegiate career.
His 2018 season stood out as a defining year, anchoring a Wyoming defense that ranked 19th nationally in total defense and 25th in rushing defense. Wilson not only led the team in tackles but also tied for the team lead in interceptions and tackles for loss.
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By the time he entered the 2020 NFL Draft, the Bengals selected him 65th overall in the third round, impressed by his range, football IQ, and leadership. He quickly became one of Cincinnati’s defensive captains and a consistent presence in the middle of their unit.
“I appreciate everything Logan has done as a player and as a person during his time in Cincinnati,” Bengals coach Zac Taylor said in a statement. “He has been a central part of our defense over the past six years, and he will be remembered as a leader in our locker room. I wish him the best moving forward.”
Jones said he views Wilson as a multi-year solution rather than a short-term rental, signaling long-term confidence in his impact. Given Dallas’ defensive struggles, Wilson’s instincts and leadership could provide the spark the unit desperately needs heading into the second half of the season.
Meanwhile, back in the Mountain West, Wilson’s alma mater continues its grind. According to the PFSN College Football Playoff Meter (FPM), the Wyoming Cowboys (4-5) currently rank 116th nationally in power ranking metrics, with a projected 5.4 wins and a 16% chance of winning the conference title, and 0.0% chance of making it to the playoffs.
They will next face Fresno State on November 15, 2025, in a matchup that pits two traditional Mountain West foes against each other at Valley Children’s Stadium. As for Logan Wilson, his next challenge is in the Cowboys, where “The Cowboy” nickname might finally find its truest home.