Cowboys Explore Edge Rusher Options After Missing Out on Maxx Crosby

Dallas has several backup plans to bolster their defense in free agency after being outbid by the Ravens for the star pass rusher.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Dallas Cowboys were unable to land star edge rusher Maxx Crosby, who was traded to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round picks. However, the team is now exploring several free agent options to upgrade their pass rush, including Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips, Odafe Oweh, and Boye Mafe.

Why it matters

The Cowboys desperately need to improve their defense this offseason, and adding an elite edge rusher is a top priority. Missing out on Crosby was a setback, but the team is determined to find an impactful replacement through free agency.

The details

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Cowboys tried multiple avenues to acquire Crosby from the Raiders, including offering their 12th overall pick and a future second-rounder, as well as packaging a veteran player. However, the Raiders prioritized draft picks and ultimately accepted the Ravens' offer of two first-rounders.

  • On March 8, 2026, the Cowboys were outbid by the Ravens in the trade for Maxx Crosby.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A star edge rusher who was traded from the Raiders to the Ravens for two first-round picks.

Trey Hendrickson

A free agent edge rusher who the Cowboys have been monitoring since the trade deadline.

Jaelan Phillips

A defensive end who was traded from the Dolphins to the Eagles at the deadline, and could be a good fit in the Cowboys' new 3-4 defensive scheme.

Odafe Oweh

A free agent edge rusher who could be a better scheme fit than Hendrickson in the Cowboys' new defensive system.

Boye Mafe

A free agent edge rusher who could also be a good fit in the Cowboys' new 3-4 defense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Insider (ESPN)

“Dallas kept a hard line throughout. The franchise wasn't willing to part with two first-round picks, hoping its 12th pick in April's draft, plus a future second-rounder, would be enough to entice Las Vegas. Dallas was also willing to package a veteran player to sweeten the deal, but Vegas wasn't interested in that. The Raiders prioritized picks.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Cowboys will be active in the first wave of NFL free agency this week as they look to sign one of their top edge rusher targets to bolster their defense.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' inability to land Maxx Crosby was a setback, but the team is determined to find an impactful replacement through free agency. Their focus on players like Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips, Odafe Oweh, and Boye Mafe shows they are committed to upgrading their pass rush and improving their defense this offseason.