Cowboys Targeting Eagles' Top Free Agent Jaelan Phillips

Dallas looking to add pass-rushing help after missing out on Maxx Crosby trade

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly targeting Philadelphia Eagles free agent Jaelan Phillips as they look to bolster their pass rush this offseason. Phillips had a strong second half of the 2025 season with the Eagles, and the team is working to re-sign him before he hits the open market. However, the Cowboys are now emerging as a potential threat to lure Phillips away from their NFC East rival.

Why it matters

The potential loss of Phillips would be a major blow to the Eagles' defense, as he emerged as a key contributor in the second half of the season. The Cowboys, meanwhile, struggled to generate consistent pressure last year and are desperate to add an impact pass rusher. This battle over Phillips could have major implications on the balance of power in the NFC East.

The details

The Eagles acquired Phillips during the 2025 season in an effort to strengthen their pass rush, and the move paid immediate dividends. Now the organization faces a critical decision as free agency approaches, with reports indicating they are attempting to re-sign Phillips to a deal that would pay him over $20 million per year. However, once free agency opens, the Cowboys could quickly drive up his price as they search for a game-changer along the defensive line.

  • The Eagles acquired Phillips during the 2025 season.
  • The Cowboys missed out on a blockbuster trade for Maxx Crosby, who was ultimately dealt to the Baltimore Ravens.

The players

Jaelan Phillips

A top free agent pass rusher who spent the second half of the 2025 season with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Maxx Crosby

A star pass rusher who was traded from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens.

Howie Roseman

The general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Vic Fangio

The defensive coordinator of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Greg Rosenthal

An NFL Network reporter who ranked Jaelan Phillips as the No. 2 free agent on the market.

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What they’re saying

“Dallas must now pivot to free agency to land its pass rusher. It has monitored Trey Hendrickson dating back to the trade deadline. He's now a free agent. Jaelan Phillips, Odafe Oweh and Boye Mafe will be firmly on Dallas' radar in the coming days.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Insider (ESPN)

“People inside the league believe Philly is attempting to re-sign Phillips to a deal that would pay him well above $20 million per year.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Cowboys will likely make a strong push to sign Jaelan Phillips when free agency opens, while the Eagles are working to re-sign him before he hits the open market.

The takeaway

This battle over Jaelan Phillips could have major implications on the balance of power in the NFC East. The loss of Phillips would be a significant blow to the Eagles' defense, while his addition would greatly bolster the Cowboys' pass rush. The outcome of this free agent pursuit could end up being one of the defining moves of the offseason.