According to sources with strong NFL industry insight, Dallas is expected to at least explore Crosby, but the price could be prohibitive. As an alternative, two other edge options are being discussed: Trey Hendrickson, who recently posted back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons and wouldn’t require high draft compensation, and Jaelan Phillips, who has familiarity with the coaching staff from last season.
Insiders caution that moving a package as substantial as two first-round picks for Crosby would be a difficult target for many teams, given his age, contract, and the historical precedent for such trades. The Raiders are reportedly seeking a significant return, complicating negotiations even for a team with draft capital and veteran edge potential.
Between the Crosby pursuit and the backup plans, Dallas faces a balancing act: weighing the potential impact of a premier pass-rusher against the cost and risk of overpaying in draft assets. The broader market remains unsettled, with teams reluctant to surrender multiple top picks for a single player.
Ultimately, the Cowboys’ approach appears to hinge on whether Crosby’s price comes down or whether a viable, cheaper alternative can be secured without compromising long-term defensive objectives. Dallas continues to evaluate options as the offseason progresses, aiming to bolster a pass rush with a sustainable, cost-conscious plan.