Cowboys Lose Out on Free Agent Linebacker to Raiders

Nakobe Dean, formerly of the Eagles, chooses Las Vegas over Dallas

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys were reportedly in the running to sign free agent linebacker Nakobe Dean, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles. However, Dean ultimately chose to sign with the Las Vegas Raiders instead, citing a "gut feeling" about the decision.

Why it matters

This is a disappointing loss for the Cowboys, who were hoping to bolster their linebacker corps in free agency. Dean was seen as a top target, and his decision to join the Raiders is a setback for Dallas as they look to improve their roster and compete in the NFC East.

The details

According to NFL insider Jane Slater, the Cowboys were one of five teams that Dean had a virtual meeting with during the free agency negotiation period. Dallas reportedly made a competitive offer to Dean, but he ultimately decided to sign with the Raiders, who are picking first in the upcoming NFL Draft and will have a rookie quarterback.

  • The free agency negotiation period began on March 9, 2026.

The players

Nakobe Dean

A linebacker who previously played for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Dallas Cowboys

An NFL team based in Dallas, Texas that was interested in signing Nakobe Dean in free agency.

Las Vegas Raiders

An NFL team that ultimately signed Nakobe Dean in free agency, despite interest from the Dallas Cowboys.

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What they’re saying

“Just talked with someone close to the situation and apparently Dallas was actually very competitive in the Nakobe Dean market. He was one of their 5 zooms allowed. I'm told their offer was similar to the Raiders but ultimately he went with his gut feeling but was told he could...”

— Jane Slater, NFL Insider (Twitter)

The takeaway

The Cowboys' inability to sign Nakobe Dean is a setback in their efforts to improve their roster and compete in the NFC East. This loss highlights the challenges the team faces in attracting top free agent talent, even when they make competitive offers.