The Dallas Cowboys remain active in the linebacker market, signaling they are searching for an upgrade through trades despite not yet making a deal. Team owner Jerry Jones confirmed to ESPN that Dallas has been “trying very much to make some trades,” but those attempts have not yet worked out. He added that the pursuit will continue as the Cowboys look to improve their porous 2025 linebacking group.
Early offseason reports identified Patrick Queen as a potential target, with some speculation that a draft-day trade could be possible. However, later reporting suggested Queen’s availability has cooled, and other options such as Jordyn Brooks and Azeez Al-Shaair were discussed, though those targets were met with some skepticism from fans and media alike.
Jones’ Tuesday comments effectively reaffirm that Dallas is still shopping for a veteran or trade-based solution at linebacker. Executive vice president Stephen Jones has indicated that the club constantly evaluates many scenarios, including ones that never reach public awareness, with the goal of making the roster better.
If trades remain unproductive, the Cowboys could pivot to free agency for immediate help. Veteran options such as Bobby Wagner and Bobby Okereke are available, and some analysts have suggested Wagner as a short-term fix while Dallas continues pursuing longer-term solutions, potentially through the draft.
Dallas finished 30th in yards allowed and last in points allowed last season, underscoring the need for improvement at linebacker. With five of six linebackers who played last season graded below average by Pro Football Focus, the position remains a clear priority as the team rebuilds its defense. The Cowboys’ front office has stressed a commitment to making the roster better and exploring multiple avenues to address the deficiency.
