Cowboys Reportedly Eyeing Blockbuster Free Agent Targets After Jerry Jones' Spending Pledge

Albert Breer predicts Dallas will pursue high-profile defensive players to bolster their roster.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 2:39pm

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The Dallas Cowboys are looking to make a big splash in free agency this offseason, according to reports. After team owner Jerry Jones said the team would spend more money than usual, NFL insider Albert Breer speculated that the Cowboys could pursue top defensive players like Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson, and Jaelan Phillips to help improve their struggling defense.

Why it matters

The Cowboys missed the playoffs the last two seasons, and their defense was a major weakness. By aggressively pursuing high-profile free agents, the team is signaling a sense of urgency to get back to the postseason and contend for a Super Bowl before the window closes on their current core of star players.

The details

Breer believes the Cowboys will at least explore trades for Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, who would help replace the production lost when the team traded away star linebacker Micah Parsons. They could also target free agents like Trey Hendrickson, who is coming off back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons, and Jaelan Phillips, who played under new Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker last year with the Philadelphia Eagles.

  • The NFL free agency period is set to open on March 11, 2026.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who is considered a potential trade target for the Cowboys.

Trey Hendrickson

A free agent defensive end who is coming off back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons.

Jaelan Phillips

A free agent defensive player who played under the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator Christian Parker last season with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Jerry Jones

The 83-year-old owner of the Dallas Cowboys who recently said the team would spend more money in free agency than usual.

Micah Parsons

The star linebacker the Cowboys traded away last year, leaving a big hole in their defense.

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What they’re saying

“So who could help Dallas? My sense is they'll at least kick the tires on (Maxx) Crosby. Trey Hendrickson is older, but is a year removed from back-to-back 17.5-sack seasons, and wouldn't cost draft picks. Jaelan Phillips would be another option at edge and who was with new coordinator Christian Parker last year in Philly.”

— Albert Breer, NFL Insider

“I would bet that we will spend more money in free agency than we have.”

— Jerry Jones

What’s next

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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.