The Dallas Cowboys have spent most of the season hovering around the middle of the NFC pack, but with the trade deadline almost here, the question is no longer whether they should make a move.
It is whether they will. There is growing noise around the Cowboys exploring defensive help, specifically at edge rusher, but the complete picture of their intentions is still unfolding.
Are the Dallas Cowboys Preparing for a Major Defensive Addition?
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport sparked the latest round of speculation in a video posted on X, saying, “We haven’t talked about the Cowboys enough, maybe because they play Monday night, but let’s do exactly that in advance of the trade deadline.” He added that Jerry Jones continues to speak publicly about the idea of a significant move and confirmed that the Cowboys are actively monitoring the pass-rush market.
Rapoport stated, “Wouldn’t be surprised if the Dallas Cowboys trade for a pass rush. From my understanding is they are in the market for D-line or defensive end help,” before listing several possible targets, including Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips of the Dolphins and Arden Key of the Titans. He pointed out that everyone around the league can see that the Cowboys have to upgrade their defense.
From @NFLGameDay Morning: The #Cowboys are in the market for an edge rusher before Tuesday at 4 pm; Meanwhile, #Commanders WR Terry McLaurin wasn’t placed on IR, but he’s out this week and likely next week. There is a chance he misses the #Dolphins game in Madrid, as well. pic.twitter.com/Na9qzEFDYo
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 2, 2025
A follow-up report by Rapoport himself expands that list, adding Raiders edge rusher Malcolm Koonce to the pool of candidates. That same report notes that the Cowboys have appeared in almost every trade discussion this season but have yet to make a move. The Cowboys are averaging fewer than two sacks per game, and only James Houston has more than one sack on the roster, indicating that pressure production has slipped.
The numbers back that up. According to PFSN’s Defense Impact metric, the Cowboys rank 31st in the NFL with a score of 58.2 through eight games. The Cowboys have allowed 250 total points, given up 6.20 yards per play, and opponents are converting on third and fourth downs at a 52.2% rate, one of the worst marks in the league.
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The defense has produced just seven turnovers, including four interceptions, while surrendering 20 passing touchdowns and 10 rushing touchdowns. Even the pass rush sits at a modest 5.3% sack rate, which further explains why the front office is targeting edge help.
What complicates the decision is timing. The Cowboys sit at 3–4–1, and while the season is not yet lost, another defeat could alter the front office’s approach. A rental player might not make sense if postseason hopes fade, but a longer-contract pass rusher could still fit a retooling plan.
Of the names mentioned, Bradley Chubb is the only one signed beyond 2025, with a contract that runs through 2027. His deal is expensive, but he is also the most proven of the group. Phillips has flashed the most upside with 22 sacks across his first 42 games and appears to be regaining form after his 2024 ACL tear.
Key is older but reliable, while Koonce is the biggest unknown coming off his own ACL and meniscus injury.
If cap flexibility matters more than draft capital, Phillips or Key makes the most sense. If the Cowboys want a long-term piece, Chubb is the only option who fits. Whether the Cowboys’ act may depend less on talent and more on whether ownership believes this season is still salvageable and whether the defense is the reason it is not.
The Cowboys have talked like a buyer. The next game may determine whether they stay that way.