With just two games left against the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons before the NFL trade deadline on November 5th, the Dallas Cowboys might need to make some tough decisions. If they find themselves at 3-5, it would be wise to consider trading some key players to help rebuild for the future. Here are a few players the Cowboys should think about moving:
#1. Brandin Cooks
Brandin Cooks’ value has dropped due to his recent performances and age, but the Cowboys could still get a sixth or seventh-round pick in return.
Since Cooks doesn’t seem to fit into the Cowboys’ long-term plans, trading him would allow the team to assess younger receivers like Jalen Tolbert, Jalen Brooks, and Ryan Flournoy. It’s a great chance to evaluate developing talent while adding a draft asset.
#2. Luke Schoonmaker
The Cowboys usually avoid giving up on their draft picks, but there’s little need for Luke Schoonmaker with the current roster. Unless the team decides to part ways with Jake Ferguson, Schoonmaker’s absence wouldn’t be felt much.
As a former second-round pick with promising potential, he’s an ideal candidate for the trade block. While Schoonmaker has value, it’s not something the Cowboys need at the moment, making him a useful asset in a trade for draft picks or more immediate needs.
#3. Trey Lance
The Cowboys’ intentions for Trey Lance were made clear when they extended Dak Prescott, making Lance a valuable, low-cost trade target for quarterback-needy teams like the Miami Dolphins, Las Vegas Raiders, and Tennessee Titans.
The Dolphins could use Lance to stay competitive while Tua Tagovailoa recovers from his concussion.
The Raiders, whose quarterbacks were outperformed by Lance in the preseason, might view him as an upgrade.
Meanwhile, the Titans, in search of a young quarterback to lead their offense, could see Lance as a potential long-term solution.
#4. DeMarcus Lawrence
DeMarcus Lawrence is in the final year of his contract, and with the Cowboys facing cap issues, it seems unlikely they’ll re-sign him in the offseason. If the team falls out of playoff contention, Lawrence becomes an ideal trade candidate for teams looking to strengthen their pass rush.
The Detroit Lions, particularly after Aidan Hutchinson’s recent injury, would be a perfect fit. As contenders, adding a veteran like Lawrence could be the key move that elevates the Lions to the next level.