The Dallas Cowboys have some pivotal decisions to tackle this offseason, especially when it comes to wide receiver George Pickens and defensive tackle Kenny Clark. Pickens is fresh off a standout season, making him a priority to retain. Meanwhile, Clark's situation is a bit more complicated.
Acquired from the Green Bay Packers in the trade for Micah Parsons, Clark has been a solid contributor to Dallas' defense. However, he's not quite on Parsons' level, and with a looming $21.5 million salary cap hit for 2026, the Cowboys, who are over $30 million above the cap, might need to make some tough calls.
ESPN's Bill Barnwell suggests a trade scenario that could send Clark and a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for a 2027 sixth-round pick. This move could bolster Cincinnati's defense, which was among the league's weakest last season.
In 2025, Clark's contract was manageable, with the Cowboys covering his $1.3 million base salary and $1 million in roster bonuses. Although he didn't completely transform Dallas' defense, he was far from a liability. However, with an $11 million roster bonus due in mid-March, his 2026 cap hit ranks fifth among Cowboys players.
Clark's contract isn't guaranteed, and if he hits free agency, he might not secure the same $21.5 million deal. Comparisons to Grady Jarrett's three-year, $42.5 million contract with the Bears suggest Clark could be looking at a similar range. A pay cut to around $14 million might be a viable option, along with a swap of late-round picks.
The Bengals, with offensive stars like Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, need defensive reinforcements. Their defense ranked 29th in EPA per play against designed rushes, and with Trey Hendrickson's future uncertain, they need help on the defensive line.
Joseph Ossai and Shemar Stewart are promising, but adding Clark could strengthen their interior alongside B.J. Hill and T.J.
Slaton Jr.
Clark, at 30, still has gas in the tank, evidenced by his 2025 stats: three sacks, nine quarterback hits, six tackles for loss, and 36 total tackles. His playoff experience, including two NFC Championship Game appearances with Green Bay, could provide valuable leadership for Cincinnati's younger defenders.
With Burrow at the helm, the Bengals have the offensive firepower to compete for a Super Bowl in a potentially wide-open AFC. Yet, as the adage goes, defense wins championships. Cincinnati's struggles in 2025, exacerbated by Burrow's toe injury, left them at 6-11, missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year.
Rumors of a potential Burrow trade add another layer of complexity. However, focusing on defensive upgrades, especially after extending Chase and Higgins, could be the key to turning things around for the Bengals.