Cowboys Eyeing Trey Hendrickson After Maxx Crosby Pursuit

Dallas may turn to free agent pass rusher Hendrickson if they can't land Raiders' Crosby in a trade.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys are actively searching for a top pass rusher to bolster their defensive front, and have reportedly shown interest in both Las Vegas Raiders' Maxx Crosby and free agent Trey Hendrickson. While Crosby would require a trade, Hendrickson is set to hit the open market, making him a more viable option for the Cowboys if they can't land Crosby.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' pass rush was a major weakness last season, and they are determined to address that need this offseason. Landing an elite pass rusher like Hendrickson or Crosby could significantly improve their defensive production and help them compete in the NFC East.

The details

The Cowboys have reportedly checked in on Raiders' defensive end Maxx Crosby, but acquiring him would likely require a trade and significant draft capital that the team may not be willing to part with. As an alternative, the team is now eyeing free agent Trey Hendrickson, a former sack leader who is set to hit the open market. The Cowboys were interested in Hendrickson before last season's trade deadline, and may pursue him again if they can't land Crosby.

  • The Cowboys were reportedly interested in Hendrickson before last season's trade deadline.
  • Maxx Crosby is currently under contract with the Las Vegas Raiders.

The players

Trey Hendrickson

A free agent defensive end who led the NFL in sacks in 2020.

Maxx Crosby

A defensive end currently under contract with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Micah Parsons

A linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys who had a standout rookie season in 2021.

Quinnen Williams

A defensive tackle the Cowboys acquired in a trade before the 2022 season.

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What’s next

The Cowboys will need to decide whether to pursue a trade for Maxx Crosby or sign free agent Trey Hendrickson in the coming weeks as they look to bolster their pass rush.

The takeaway

The Cowboys are clearly prioritizing improving their defensive front this offseason, and are weighing their options between trading for Maxx Crosby or signing free agent Trey Hendrickson. Whichever path they choose, landing an elite pass rusher could be a game-changer for their defense.