Let’s be honest, the Dallas Cowboys’ defense has been awful. Trading away Micah Parsons before the start of the NFL season left a massive hole that no one on the roster has come close to filling. Dallas has struggled to find any rhythm or leadership on that side of the ball. Every Sunday, it’s the same story: missed tackles, communication issues leading to blown coverages, and an inability to make in-game adjustments. As Jerry Jones searches for answers, these two players stand out as potential trade targets who can immediately change the tone of the defense.
Logan Wilson would be an ideal fit for the Cowboys due to his versatile skill set, which includes strong coverage instincts, consistent tackling, and run-stopping ability. He directly addresses several of the team’s defensive weaknesses. His history as a team captain for the Cincinnati Bengals demonstrates that he can provide the veteran leadership and communication that this unit sorely lacks.
Wilson’s steady production, highlighted by a high tackle rate and a knack for creating turnovers, would bring reliability to the middle of the field and help stabilize a struggling linebacker group. His adaptability across multiple defensive schemes suggests he could seamlessly transition into Matt Eberflus’ system, helping to mask the defensive issues with ineffective zone coverage.
Dallas could likely acquire him from the Bengals for a mid- to late-round draft pick, such as a fourth or fifth-round pick. His trade value has plummeted since requesting a trade away from Cincinnati due to his role being reduced in the new defensive setup and the emergence of rookie linebacker Barrett Carter.
Jaelan Phillips is the perfect trade target for the Cowboys because his elite pass-rushing ability is exactly what the defense is missing. Though injuries have slowed his performances the past two seasons, including a torn Achilles in 2023 and a torn ACL in 2024. When healthy, he showcases an explosive burst and a powerful technique off the edge that leads to many collapsed pockets.
Phillips’ presence would demand immediate attention from opposing blockers, which would help create opportunities for teammates. Just as importantly, his strength against the run would help fix the recurring issues with tackling and gap discipline. Making him a high upside addition with both short-term and long-term value. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus can also deploy him in a variety of ways, especially with Phillips’ versatility to play his hands in the dirt or as a stand-up outside linebacker.
Given Phillips’ injury history, expiring contract, and the Miami Dolphins’ heading for a rebuild, Dallas could obtain him at a bargain price. It’s the perfect buy-low situation, one that makes a lot of sense considering the upside of the player when healthy. For a player with game-changing potential, the reward could outweigh the risk.
The Cowboys can’t afford to keep waiting for their defense to turn things around. Trading away Parsons stripped the unit of its identity, and the results have been disastrous: poor communication, missing tackles, and no true pass rush. Fixing those problems means going into the trade market and making a move to bring in help. Wilson and Phillips each address critical weak spots and could immediately raise the defense’s ceiling. Both come with risk, but standing pat could be an even bigger mistake. If Jones truly believes this team can contend, it’s time to act before the season slips away.
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