Cowboys 'Pursuing' Eagles Star In Free Agency

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Feb 26, 2026 10:10 AM ET

It's no secret the Dallas Cowboys need help on the defensive side of the football. That being said, they might turn to a member of the Philadelphia Eagles for help.

The Cowboys offered little resistance on defense this past season, ranking 30th in total yards and 32nd in points allowed. They showed some promise after acquiring Quinnen Williams at the trade deadline, but that unit is ultimately the main reason why Dallas went 7-9-1 under Brian Schottenheimer. Luckily for "America's Team," help could be on the way this March.

Clarence Hill Jr. is reporting that Dallas will pursue linebacker Nakobe Dean in free agency. The fourth-year linebacker has been with Philadelphia since the 2022 season.

Dean, a former third-round pick from Georgia, had 128 tackles, four pass break-ups, three sacks and two fumble recoveries during the 2024 season. Unfortunately, he missed an extended period of time in 2025 due to a torn patellar tendon in his left knee.

Despite only appearing in 10 games this past season, Dean still had 55 tackles, four sacks and two forced fumbles for the Eagles.

Nov 16, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean (17) celebrates his sack during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images© Eric Hartline-Imagn Images.

Nakobe Dean is a perfect fit for Dallas.

A month ago, the Cowboys hired Christian Parker as their defensive coordinator. He spent the past two seasons as the secondary coach and passing game coordinator for the Eagles.

If the Cowboys want Parker's system to have immediate success, it wouldn't hurt bringing over a few of his players. Not only would Dean bring experience to Dallas, he'd fill the void left behind by Logan Wilson, who was cut last week.

Of course, it also doesn't hurt that Dallas signing Dean would weaken Philadelphia's defense in the process.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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