One high-profile scenario proposes Dallas moving from No. 12 and No. 92 in the upcoming draft up to No. 3 with the Arizona Cardinals, then selecting Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey to bolster the defense. The plan would require a substantial package from Dallas, far beyond a typical third-round swap, to move up nine spots in the draft.
Bailey, a 6-foot-4, 251-pound defender, posted a standout 2025 season with 14.5 sacks and 33 3/4-inch arms, adding immediate juice to the Cowboys’ edge rush presence. Proponents argue Bailey could be a difference-maker in a draft considered not especially deep at the position.
Dallas owner Jerry Jones has publicly tempered expectations on acquiring Crosby, noting no anticipation of revisiting the trade despite the Ravens’ veto of a prior deal after a failed physical. Jones emphasized that any potential trade would hinge on the player passing a physical and the teams agreeing on terms.
The debate continues as analysts weigh the cost of chasing Crosby versus investing in Bailey or other alternatives. The proposed trade to No. 3 remains a speculative mock draft scenario highlighted by media analysts as a possible path for Dallas to add talent and depth at edge rusher.
In summary, the Cowboys are exploring upgrade options at edge defender, weighing a bold draft-capital move for a top pass rusher against the practicality and cost of a direct bid for Crosby, with Bailey emerging as a realistic and affordable alternative if Dallas chooses to bolster the position through the draft.
