With the NFL trade deadline (November 4th) fast approaching, the Dallas Cowboys are widely expected to be active buyers to bolster their inconsistent roster. However, to facilitate any significant acquisitions, the front office might need to part ways with some current players, both to acquire assets and to offer a fresh start to those who haven’t quite met expectations.
Given the defense’s overall struggles, a shake-up isn’t out of the question. The following four players could benefit from a change of scenery while also potentially providing the Cowboys with some bargaining chips.
1. Mazi Smith – Defensive Tackle
The former first-round pick has not lived up to his draft status. He has struggled to find a consistent role in the new defensive scheme. For a team looking to take a flier on a young, powerful interior lineman for run defense, he remains a potential reclamation project. A trade would provide a clean break for both parties, allowing Dallas to recoup some value from a disappointing investment.
2. Markquese Bell – Safety
After generating some buzz during training camp, Bell has since fallen behind Juanyeh Thomas on the depth chart. Given the injuries and general underperformance in the Cowboys’ secondary, Bell is an athletic defensive back who could attract teams seeking depth. Moving him for a late-round draft pick would be a logical move.
3. Solomon Thomas – Defensive Tackle
The veteran former first-round pick has served as a rotational piece behind Osa Odighizuwa. He’s a reliable veteran who could provide dependable depth for a contender looking to fortify their defensive interior. For the Cowboys, he represents expendable depth that could be leveraged.
4. James Houston – Defensive End
With the impending return of DeMarvion Overshown, the linebacker/pass-rusher room is about to get more crowded. Houston flashed potential early in the season, but his role has diminished. He still possesses potential as a pass-rush specialist and could appeal to teams looking to add a low-cost, high-upside player to their edge rotation.
The trade value for these players is likely limited, perhaps netting late-round draft picks or serving as throw-ins for larger deals. However, making such moves serves a dual purpose: it helps the Cowboys accumulate future assets and gives these players the new beginning they might need. For a Cowboys team searching for answers, every minor adjustment could help turn their season around after the bye week.