A Trade Won’t Fix the Dallas Cowboys’ Defense’s Problem

A Trade Won’t Save This Defense

After Sunday’s loss to the Denver Broncos, one truth is obvious: a single trade can’t fix the Dallas Cowboys’ defense.

The problem isn’t a lack of players — it’s how those players are being used. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus continues to force a rigid system that doesn’t match his roster’s strengths.

Even a big trade before the NFL trade deadline wouldn’t solve the deeper issue: a scheme that handcuffs its own defenders.

The Zone Coverage Is Crippling the Pass Rush

Eberflus’ soft zone defense gives quarterbacks clean, quick reads and open receivers almost immediately after the snap. By the time edge rushers can disengage, the ball is already gone.

That’s why James Houston and Donovan Ezeiruaku have struggled to generate sacks or consistent pressure — not because they lack ability, but because the coverage behind them collapses too fast.

When quarterbacks can find open targets in under two seconds, no pass rush has a chance to get home.

The entire front seven suffers from this disconnect. A talented group built to attack is being forced to wait, watch, and react — the exact opposite of what made them effective in the first place.

Keep the Draft Picks — Fix the Leadership

Instead of sacrificing valuable draft capital for a short-term fix, the Cowboys front office should focus on leadership.

The defense needs a new coordinator who can evaluate players correctly and design a system around their strengths.

Young defenders like Shemar James, Marist Liufau, and Donovan Ezeiruaku have upside — they just need direction and a philosophy that lets them attack.

With the right voice in charge, Dallas could rebuild its defensive identity without wasting future picks.

The Offense Is Championship-Ready — the Defense Isn’t

The Cowboys’ offense is one of the league’s best. Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Javonte Williams form a top-tier scoring core capable of hanging points on anyone.

Yet every explosive drive is undermined by defensive breakdowns. Dallas has the firepower of a contender — and the coverage discipline of a rebuilding team.

Until the Cowboys find a coordinator who adapts instead of forcing his system, no trade will make a difference.

Turning Point Ahead

A new player won’t fix a broken structure. The Cowboys don’t need another body — they need a vision built on accountability, smarter coaching, and modern defensive concepts.

The true rebuild begins with leadership, not transactions. If Dallas commits to that change this offseason, the defense can finally rise to the level of its offense — and the Cowboys can start playing like the contender they were built to be.