Cowboys' $13 million All-Pro return specialist named among Dallas' most tradable assets

A Dallas Cowboys writer believes the franchise's 29-year-old All-Pro return specialist should be included in trade talks this offseason.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:43pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-return motion, with sharp planes of navy blue, silver, and white overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract composition.A cubist interpretation of the Cowboys' dynamic return specialist, whose future with the team remains uncertain.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys have been involved in trade rumors for weeks, and a Cowboys Wire writer believes the team's 29-year-old All-Pro return specialist, KaVontae Turpin, should be on the trade block. Turpin is highly valued around the NFL for his game-breaking speed and return ability, but the writer suggests the Cowboys may be willing to trade him despite his offensive production, as they can take the hit on that side of the ball.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to make moves this offseason, and Turpin's value as a return specialist could make him an attractive trade asset for the team. However, his importance to the Cowboys' return game may make the team reluctant to part ways with him.

The details

Turpin, who is under contract through 2027, had a down year in 2025-26 on offense, with 'miscues and drops' and a 'perceived loss of confidence.' However, he still finished the season with 1,814 return yards and one touchdown, earning second-team All-Pro honors. The writer believes Turpin's 'game-breaking speed' and the fact that he is 'highly valued around the NFL' could make him an attractive trade target for teams looking to add a dynamic return specialist.

  • Turpin is currently under contract with the Cowboys through the 2027 season.

The players

KaVontae Turpin

A 29-year-old All-Pro return specialist for the Dallas Cowboys.

Reid D Hanson

A writer for the Dallas Cowboys Wire.

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What they’re saying

“The Cowboys tried to expand Turpin's role in 2025 and in some ways it worked and in other ways it failed. Turpin posted career numbers on offense, but miscues and drops were littered throughout.”

— Reid D Hanson, Cowboys Wire writer

“His return ability also suffered with Turpin collecting uncharacteristic penalties and a perceived loss of confidence along the way. Even coming off a down year, Turpin is highly valued around the NFL.”

— Reid D Hanson, Cowboys Wire writer

What’s next

The Cowboys will likely evaluate Turpin's trade value and decide whether to keep him or explore a potential deal this offseason.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' decision on Turpin's future will be a delicate balance between his value as a return specialist and the team's willingness to part with a talented player who may be able to contribute more on offense. This move could have significant implications for the Cowboys' special teams and overall roster construction.