Cowboys Propose Blockbuster Trade to Land Top Linebacker in 2026 NFL Draft

Dallas could shake up the NFC East by moving up to No. 3 overall to select Ohio State's Sonny Styles.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:50pm

A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football game or NFL draft scene, with sharp geometric shapes in muted earth tones representing the strategic maneuvering and high stakes involved.A proposed blockbuster trade could reshape the NFC East power dynamic by bringing a top defensive talent to the Cowboys.Arizona City Today

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade in the 2026 NFL Draft that would send both of their first-round picks to the Arizona Cardinals in order to move up to the No. 3 overall selection and land Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. The Cowboys are in need of an impact defender to help them challenge the Philadelphia Eagles for NFC East supremacy, and many believe Styles could be that game-changing player.

Why it matters

The NFC East is expected to be highly competitive in 2026, with the Cowboys and Eagles both projected to be playoff contenders. Adding a talent like Styles could give Dallas the edge it needs to overtake Philadelphia and claim the division title.

The details

According to the report, the Cowboys would need to surrender both of their first-round picks, as well as their third-round selection, in order to move up to No. 3 and select Styles. This would be a costly trade, but the Cowboys believe Styles is worth the price of admission. The linebacker is praised for his athleticism, tackling ability, and coverage skills, and could provide the Cowboys' defense with a much-needed boost.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for later this month.

The players

Sonny Styles

An Ohio State linebacker who is projected to be a top-5 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Jerry Jones

The owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys.

Monti Ossenfort

The general manager of the Arizona Cardinals.

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What they’re saying

“Go up to No. 3 and get Sonny Styles. The one thing the Cowboys really need is kind of an off-ball linebacker... Get the one impact guy I think could get you really close to the Eagles.”

— Frank Schwab, Yahoo Sports Writer

What’s next

The Cowboys will need to finalize a trade proposal with the Cardinals before the 2026 NFL Draft later this month.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the Cowboys' urgency to find an elite defensive playmaker who can help them challenge the Eagles for NFC East supremacy. Acquiring Sonny Styles would be a bold move, but one that could pay dividends if he lives up to his potential.