Cowboys Enter Offseason with Cap Space and Big Decisions Ahead
With the NFL salary cap set to rise, the Dallas Cowboys are staring down a pivotal offseason - one that could shape the franchise’s trajectory for years to come. From re-signing key offensive playmakers to potentially swinging big on the trade market, there’s no shortage of intrigue in Dallas. Let’s break it all down.
George Pickens: The Priority at Wide Receiver
If there’s one name that should be circled in red ink on the Cowboys’ offseason to-do list, it’s George Pickens. The physical, vertical threat has become an essential piece of the offense - the kind of player defenses have to account for on every single snap. Whether he’s pulling safeties out of position or winning one-on-one matchups downfield, Pickens changes the geometry of the field.
The franchise tag is an option, but it’s a costly one - both financially and in terms of long-term planning. A one-year tag would carry a massive cap hit and offer no security for Pickens or the team.
A multi-year deal, especially one structured smartly around the rising cap, is the more strategic play. Locking him in through and beyond 2026 would provide stability at a position that’s notoriously difficult to patch together year after year.
Pickens’ presence also makes life easier for the rest of the offense - opening up space underneath, helping the run game, and giving the quarterback a reliable target in crunch time. Bottom line: Dallas needs to get this deal done.
Javonte Williams: Power and Balance in the Backfield
The running back market has cooled in recent years, but that doesn’t mean backs like Javonte Williams don’t bring value - especially in an offense that wants to stay balanced and physical.
Williams gives Dallas a powerful, downhill runner who thrives between the tackles. He’s the kind of back who can help close out games, convert tough third downs, and keep the offense from becoming too predictable. His contact balance and reliability aren’t flashy, but they’re essential.
With the cap increasing, the Cowboys can afford to invest reasonably in Williams without sacrificing flexibility elsewhere. Retaining him would help preserve the team’s offensive identity while also protecting the quarterback by keeping defenses honest.
Mock Draft Movement: Trading Up for Defensive Star Power
In a recent mock draft scenario, the Cowboys made a bold move - trading up to the No. 8 overall pick in a deal with the New Orleans Saints. The trade sends picks 1.12, 1.20, and 4.112 to New Orleans in exchange for 1.8, 2.42, and 3.73. It’s a near-even swap in terms of draft value, but the real win comes in the form of who Dallas selects.
1.8: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
Downs is widely viewed as one of the top overall talents in this draft class, even if the safety position doesn’t typically carry top-10 value. For Dallas, he’s a perfect fit. Downs brings high football IQ, physicality, and versatility - all traits that align with new defensive coordinator Christian Parker’s vision.
He’s the kind of player you can build a secondary around. Smart, instinctive, and tough, Downs can be a tone-setter for a defense that’s looking to re-establish its identity.
2.42: Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
Landing Hill in the second round is a steal. He’s a high-upside linebacker with elite pursuit speed and downhill instincts. Pairing him with DeMarvion Overshown - another Texas product - could give Dallas a fast, aggressive duo in the middle of the field.
Fixing the intermediate level of the defense has to be a priority, and Hill is the kind of player who can help do that from Day 1.
Could Maxx Crosby Be in Play?
There’s growing buzz around the idea that Dallas could make a splashy trade for Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby. It’s speculative, but the smoke is real - Crosby reportedly pushed back against being shut down late in the season with a knee injury, and the Raiders, now in transition with a new head coach incoming, may be facing a fractured relationship with their star defender.
Crosby is under contract through 2027 with a deal that includes $91.5 million in guarantees. It’s a massive commitment, but for a player of his caliber - a relentless pass rusher with leadership qualities - it might be worth the price.
If the Cowboys want to take a big swing and add a proven game-changer to their defense, this is the kind of move that could redefine the unit overnight.
Secondary Shakeup: Reed Blankenship a Potential Fit
With Donovan Wilson headed for free agency, Dallas may look to the open market for help at safety - and Reed Blankenship is a name to watch. While his coverage grade dipped last season, he still showed strong ability against the run, and his earlier coverage numbers suggest there’s bounce-back potential.
Blankenship also brings scheme familiarity, having played under Christian Parker in Philadelphia. That kind of continuity could help ease the transition as the Cowboys install a new defensive system. If Parker believes he can get the most out of him, Blankenship could be a cost-effective upgrade on the back end.
Derrick Ansley Joins the Staff: A Rising Star on Defense
Dallas also made a notable addition to its coaching staff, bringing in Derrick Ansley to coach defensive backs and coordinate the pass defense. Ansley comes from Green Bay, where he helped shape one of the league’s top-performing secondaries. His work was instrumental enough that defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley landed the Dolphins’ head coaching job.
Ansley’s résumé is impressive - from coaching stars like Minkah Fitzpatrick and Marlon Humphrey at Alabama to working under respected defensive minds like Nick Saban, Kirby Smart, and Paul Guenther. He’s known as a technician and a motivator, and his presence adds another layer of experience to a young defensive staff.
At just 34 years old, Ansley is already viewed as a future defensive coordinator. For now, he’ll be tasked with developing a talented but inconsistent Cowboys secondary - and if his track record is any indication, he’s up to the challenge.
Final Thoughts
The Cowboys enter this offseason with the rare combination of cap space, draft capital, and a clear understanding of where they need to improve. Whether it’s locking down George Pickens, reinforcing the run game with Javonte Williams, or revamping the defense through the draft and free agency, the blueprint is there.
Now it’s about execution. And with a new defensive regime in place and the front office eyeing aggressive moves, this could be the most consequential offseason Dallas has had in years.