With the NFL trade deadline looming on November 4, 2025, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a crossroads. Their offense is a juggernaut, leading the league with 390.6 total yards per game and ranking second in scoring at 31.7 points per contest. However, their defense is a glaring liability, surrendering a league-worst 401.6 yards per game and the third-most points at 29.4. The Cowboys’ postseason hopes hinge on addressing this defensive collapse, and the absence of a game-changing presence is painfully evident.
That void stems from a decision that still haunts Dallas: trading away Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. While no one expected the Cowboys’ defense to remain elite without their generational talent, few could have predicted it would plummet to such depths. If Dallas genuinely believes a playoff run is within reach—and their high-powered offense suggests it’s possible—they must bolster their defense before the deadline. One intriguing option? A reunion with a homegrown talent they let slip away: Chauncey Golston.
Golston, an honorable mention on ESPN’s recent list of 34 players who could be traded, is currently languishing with the New York Giants, a division rival. Drafted by Dallas in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft alongside Osa Odighizuwa (a success) and Nahson Wright (a bust traded to Chicago), Golston spent his first three seasons as a versatile but unspectacular contributor. He played multiple positions along the defensive line and chipped in on special teams, showing promise but never fully breaking out.
That changed in 2024. With injuries ravaging the Cowboys’ defense, Golston seized the moment, delivering a career-best season: 56 tackles, five tackles for loss, eight quarterback hits, 5.5 sacks (second only to Parsons’ 12.0), five passes defended, and an interception. His breakout performance showcased his potential as a disruptive force, earning him a three-year, $18 million contract with the Giants, including $12 million guaranteed.
Unfortunately, Golston’s time in New York has been a disappointment. Injuries, including a neck issue that sidelined him for the Giants’ recent loss to Denver, have limited his impact. Even when healthy, he’s struggled for playing time, stuck behind star edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. His highest snap count in four appearances this season was a mere 23.6%—ironically, against Dallas in Week 2. The lack of opportunities has made Golston a potential trade candidate, and the Cowboys should be first in line to bring him back.
Re-acquiring Golston might raise eyebrows, especially so soon after letting him walk in free agency. Some might argue it was a mistake born of necessity, as owner Jerry Jones likely prioritized cap space for a Parsons extension that never materialized. But a reunion makes sense. Golston wouldn’t displace established edge rushers like Dante Fowler Jr. or Donovan Ezeiruaku, but he’d be a clear upgrade over Sam Williams and Marshawn Kneeland. His familiarity with Dallas’ system, combined with his proven 2024 production, could provide an immediate boost to a struggling unit.
Of course, bigger names like Maxx Crosby are also on the trade market, and Dallas would be wise to explore those options first. But if blockbuster deals fall through, Golston represents a low-risk, high-reward target. His versatility, work ethic, and recent success make him a sensible addition for a team desperate to shore up its defense.
The Cowboys’ decision to let Golston walk was a misstep, but the trade deadline offers a chance at redemption. Bringing back the Iowa alum could be the first step toward stabilizing a defense in disarray—and keeping Dallas’ playoff dreams alive.