Cowboys Pursue Trade for Steelers Linebacker Patrick Queen

Dallas has two first-round picks and could target the former Pro Bowler if Pittsburgh is willing to deal.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly interested in trading for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen during the upcoming NFL Draft. Queen, a 2020 first-round pick, had a down year in 2025 but could be a target for the Cowboys, who have significant defensive needs and two first-round picks. However, the Steelers have indicated they are not interested in trading Queen, so a deal may be difficult to complete.

Why it matters

The Cowboys had the worst defense in the NFL last season, allowing 30.1 points per game. Acquiring a talented linebacker like Queen could help address their defensive issues, but they'll need the Steelers to be open to a trade for it to happen.

The details

According to reports, the Cowboys had shown interest in Queen earlier in the offseason, but a trade never materialized. With the draft approaching and Dallas holding the 12th and 20th overall picks, the team could make another push to acquire the 2020 first-rounder. However, the Steelers have publicly stated they are not interested in trading Queen, who is set to make $13.3 million in 2026.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for late April.
  • In March, the Cowboys were reportedly interested in trading for Queen.
  • On March 10, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Steelers are 'not interested' in trading Queen.

The players

Patrick Queen

A linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers who was a 2020 first-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens. He made the Pro Bowl in 2023 and 2024 but struggled in coverage and against the run in 2025.

Dallas Cowboys

An NFL team that had the worst defense in the league in 2025, allowing 30.1 points per game. They hold the 12th and 20th overall picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Pittsburgh Steelers

An NFL team that acquired Patrick Queen in free agency two years ago and has indicated they are not interested in trading him this offseason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Patrick Queen was one of the Pittsburgh Steelers' marquee free-agent pickups two years ago, but he's emerging as a potential trade target this offseason.”

— Alex Kay, Bleacher Report Writer

“Despite the regression and a $13.3 million salary, Queen should have some interested suitors arise during the 2026 NFL draft.”

— Alex Kay, Bleacher Report Writer

“According to Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News, Queen was one of three veteran linebackers who the Dallas Cowboys had shown some interest in earlier in the offseason.”

— Alex Kay, Bleacher Report Writer

“The Steelers are 'not interested' in trading Queen.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter

“It's just rumors when it comes to a Queen trade.”

— Gerry Dulac, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Reporter

What’s next

The Cowboys will have to wait and see if the Steelers change their stance on trading Patrick Queen ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. If Pittsburgh remains unwilling to deal the linebacker, Dallas may have to look elsewhere to address its defensive needs.

The takeaway

This story highlights the Cowboys' ongoing efforts to improve their defense through trades and the draft, as well as the challenges they face in acquiring top talent when other teams are unwilling to part with their key players. It also underscores the importance of the draft for teams like Dallas that are looking to fill significant holes on their roster.