Dallas has addressed the back line with Rashan Gary’s addition and several defensive backs, highlighted by Jalen Thompson, but front-seven upgrades remain a priority. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker has high expectations, yet the current roster provides limited upside for a dramatic 2026 turnaround without more forward pressure.
Two first-round selections give Dallas flexibility, but the team would still benefit from veteran reinforcements to speed up the process. There has been circulating talk about the Steelers weighing a trade around Highsmith, with Nick Herbig also floated as a potential target, though the likelihood of moving both appears uncertain.
Highsmith has established himself as a top pass-rusher, turning 29 this August and entering the final years of a contract that includes two remaining base salaries totaling $30 million. A strong 2026 season could position him for an extension, and last year he posted 9.5 sacks in 13 games with a standout 82.2 grade from pro evaluators, ranking 12th among 119 edge players.
Any deal would hinge on fit and cost, with a likely minimum of a second-round pick required from Dallas. The Cowboys could explore moving down from either 12 or 20 to recoup additional picks, but that would require coordination with other teams and a willingness to part with future assets.
While a Highsmith pursuit remains a possibility, Dallas’ path to meaningful improvement will likely involve a combination of draft selections and veteran adds, as they balance the need for immediate impact with long-term roster construction under Parker’s new system. The coming days of draft week should clarify how aggressively Dallas pursues premium edge and linebacker options.
