Cowboys, Commanders Vie for Top Pass Rusher in $106M Deal

Two NFC East rivals look to bolster defenses with high-priced free agent

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:31pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the silhouette of a football player in the midst of a pass rush, with sharp geometric planes in the colors of the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders uniforms.Two NFC East rivals vie for the services of a top free agent pass rusher, whose signing could shift the balance of power in the division.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders are expected to battle for the services of a top free agent edge rusher this offseason, with the player potentially commanding a contract worth over $100 million. Both teams are looking to improve their pass rush after disappointing sack totals in the previous season.

Why it matters

Upgrading the pass rush is a priority for both the Cowboys and Commanders as they look to compete in the tough NFC East division. A dominant edge rusher can transform a defense and provide a significant boost to a team's playoff aspirations.

The details

The player in question is a highly coveted free agent who is projected to receive a deal worth over $100 million on the open market. Both the Cowboys and Commanders are expected to be among the top suitors, as they aim to bolster their defensive fronts and pressure opposing quarterbacks more effectively.

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine took place in March 2026.
  • The 2026-27 NFL season is set to kick off in September 2026.

The players

Maxx Crosby

A star edge rusher for the Las Vegas Raiders who is not expected to be traded, according to the team's general manager.

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What they’re saying

“At the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek told reporters that the team had no intention of trading star edge-rusher Maxx Crosby.”

— John Spytek, Las Vegas Raiders General Manager

The takeaway

The battle for this top free agent edge rusher will be a key storyline to watch this offseason, as the Cowboys and Commanders look to bolster their defenses and gain an edge in the competitive NFC East.