Cowboys Acquire Pro Bowl Defensive Lineman Rashan Gary from Packers

Dallas bolsters defensive line with trade for 4-year contract extension player

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to acquire Pro Bowl defensive lineman Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick, according to multiple reports. Gary, a former first-round pick, has emerged as a dominant force on the Packers' defensive line over the past seven seasons.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' defense struggled mightily in 2025, ranking 32nd in points allowed and 30th in yards allowed. The addition of Gary, a Pro Bowler in 2024, should significantly bolster their defensive line and help improve their overall defensive performance.

The details

The Packers selected Gary with the 12th overall pick in the 2019 draft out of Michigan. He has developed into a versatile defensive lineman, playing both defensive end and linebacker during his time in Green Bay. In 2024, Gary had 7.5 sacks, 47 tackles, and a fumble recovery, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He followed that up with another strong season in 2025, recording 7.5 sacks, 45 tackles, and a fumble recovery in 16 games.

  • The Cowboys agreed to acquire Rashan Gary on Monday, March 9, 2026.
  • Gary signed a 4-year contract extension with the Packers during the 2023 season.

The players

Rashan Gary

A Pro Bowl defensive lineman who was selected 12th overall by the Green Bay Packers in the 2019 NFL Draft. He has developed into a dominant force on the Packers' defensive line over the past seven seasons.

Dallas Cowboys

An NFL team based in Dallas, Texas that struggled defensively in 2025, ranking 32nd in points allowed and 30th in yards allowed.

Green Bay Packers

An NFL team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin that has traded away Pro Bowl defensive lineman Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys.

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What they’re saying

“Rashan Gary has been a key part of our defense for the past seven seasons. We wish him the best of luck in Dallas.”

— Brian Gutekunst, General Manager, Green Bay Packers (Green Bay Press-Gazette)

“Adding a player of Rashan Gary's caliber to our defensive line is a huge boost as we look to improve our defense in 2026.”

— Jerry Jones, Owner, Dallas Cowboys (Dallas Morning News)

What’s next

The Cowboys will look to integrate Gary into their defensive scheme as they aim to improve their defensive performance in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

This trade represents a significant move by the Cowboys to bolster their defensive line and address a major weakness from the 2025 season. Gary's arrival should provide a major boost to the Cowboys' defense as they look to return to the playoffs in 2026.