Cowboys Exploring Trade Options: Patrick Queen on the Radar

The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking an upgrade at inside linebacker, with the Pittsburgh Steelers' Patrick Queen emerging as a potential trade target.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:12am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football game broken down into overlapping geometric shapes and planes, conveying the strategic complexity of roster management in the NFL.The Cowboys' pursuit of a new inside linebacker highlights the complex trade dynamics and roster-building challenges facing NFL teams.Today in Pittsburgh

The NFL trade rumor mill is buzzing with the Dallas Cowboys' pursuit of an inside linebacker, with the team reportedly interested in acquiring Pittsburgh Steelers' Patrick Queen. While the Cowboys have hit a snag in their free agent plans, Queen's inconsistent play and the Steelers' depth at the position have raised questions about a potential trade.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' search for an inside linebacker highlights the team's need to upgrade a key defensive position. Queen's potential availability could provide an opportunity, but his uneven performance raises concerns about his long-term fit. The Steelers' willingness to potentially move on from Queen also speaks to the team's depth and future plans at the position.

The details

The Cowboys are actively seeking an upgrade at the inside linebacker position after missing out on top free agent targets Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, who signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. While Devin Lloyd remains a possibility, his high price tag may be a deterrent. This has led the team to explore a trade for Patrick Queen, the Steelers' linebacker who has had an inconsistent two-year tenure in Pittsburgh. Queen, entering the final year of his three-year deal, has struggled with missed tackles and average run defense, despite flashes of brilliance. With a $2.5 million roster bonus due on March 15th, the Steelers may be inclined to trade Queen before that payment becomes due.

  • The Cowboys' interest in Patrick Queen has emerged in the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft.
  • Queen is entering the final year of his three-year contract with the Steelers, with a $2.5 million roster bonus due on March 15th.

The players

Patrick Queen

A linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, entering the final year of his three-year contract with a $2.5 million roster bonus due on March 15th.

Quay Walker

A free agent linebacker who signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Nakobe Dean

A free agent linebacker who signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Devin Lloyd

A free agent linebacker who is a potential target for the Cowboys, but his high price tag may be a deterrent.

Cole Holcomb

A linebacker who the Steelers re-signed, which could be seen as a sign that they are open to trading Patrick Queen.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.