Cowboys Linked to Maxx Crosby and Josh Sweat in High-Stakes Trade Rumors

The trade deadline rumor mill around Big D has officially hit a fever pitch. Following a rocky start to the 2026 campaign and lingering depth concerns along the defensive front, the Dallas Cowboys are reportedly surveying the trade market for a game-changing edge rusher—and two major names have emerged at the center of discussions.

According to league insiders and executives monitoring the wire, owner Jerry Jones and the Dallas front office are keeping close tabs on Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby and Arizona Cardinals outsider Josh Sweat.

With the NFC East race remaining completely wide open, Dallas is signaling that it has no intention of standing pat or playing the role of deadline sellers.

Weighing the Options: The Maxx Crosby Megadeal vs. The Josh Sweat Target

The speculative chatter around Maxx Crosby has sizzled ever since Jerry Jones acknowledged that Dallas remained in the mix after a previous deal involving Las Vegas collapsed. Crosby, a three-time Pro Bowler known for his non-stop motor and elite pressure rate, represents the ultimate high-reward acquisition.

However, acquiring a talent like Crosby would demand serious future draft capital—potentially multiple first-round selections. That is where Arizona’s Josh Sweat enters the picture as a highly attractive alternative:

• The Crosby Factor: A game-disrupting force capable of transforming the entire front seven, though carrying a massive contract ceiling and steep trade tag.
• The Sweat Contingency: A proven, veteran edge rusher with Super Bowl pedigree who could offer immediate rotational firepower at a lower asset price point.

Jerry Jones’ Deadline Posture

Front-office statements from Stephen Jones have fueled speculation that a major defensive transaction could be on the horizon. Rather than rebuilding, the Cowboys appear eager to leverage available cap room and draft inventory to bolster their pass rush before the deadline closes.

Whether Dallas pulls off the blockbuster swing for Crosby or secures Sweat to fortify the edge, one thing is clear: the Cowboys front office is actively hunting for firepower to make a serious postseason push.