Cowboys Named Contenders For $106 Million Pass Rusher

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Feb 7, 2026 2:13 PM ET

The Dallas Cowboys went 7-9-1, finishing in second place in the NFC East and missing the playoffs. Now into the offseason, the front office can focus on improving the roster for 2026, especially on the defense.

Among the Cowboys' weaknesses last season was an inability to bring down the quarterback. Despite ranking first in hurries (89) and second in pressures (197), their 35 sacks were tied for 22nd most in the NFL.

After trading Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers before the season began, the Cowboys were left without a dominant threat off the edge. However, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler labels Dallas a team to watch for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby.

Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer.© Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

"I believe more than a dozen teams, possibly up to 20, will at least inquire with levels of serious intent," Fowler wrote. "And there are some natural would-be contenders, including the Bills, Lions, 49ers, Cowboys and Ravens."

The veteran earned his fifth Pro Bowl nod in 2025. Crosby appeared in 15 games for the Raiders, racking up 73 tackles, 10 sacks, 20 quarterback hits, 29 pressures, two forced fumbles and an interception.

While he would be an exciting addition, it would be a big commitment. Crosby's three-year, $106.5 million extension doesn't kick in until 2027 and runs through the 2029 season. That gives him an annual salary of $35.5 million.

Along with the financial restraint, trading for Crosby would take a considerable amount of capital. However, with three first-round picks over the next two drafts, the Cowboys are a team that would undoubtedly have enough to facilitate a trade.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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