The financial maneuvering, which involved adjusting the deals of defensive tackle Kenny Clark, cornerback DaRon Bland, and tight end Jake Ferguson, successfully generated more than $19 million in additional salary cap room. According to current NFLPA figures, the Cowboys now hold $33.6 million in available space, providing the front office with the necessary flexibility to pursue trade opportunities should they choose to do so.
Focusing on Defensive Reinforcements
Speaking on 105.3 The Fan, Jones emphasized that while no specific deals are currently on the table, the team remains active in ongoing trade discussions. When asked where the team might look to improve, Jones pointed toward the defensive side of the ball. He expressed confidence in the current offensive personnel, highlighting the depth at quarterback and tight end, as well as a high-caliber receiving corps led by CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.
Jones noted that while the team values its future draft capital, the priority remains fielding the most competitive roster possible for the current season. The Cowboys currently hold selections in the first, second, fourth, and sixth rounds for the 2027 draft, though they are not slated to receive any compensatory picks for free agents lost during the previous offseason. Despite the importance of these picks for long-term planning, Jones suggested that the front office is willing to consider parting with draft assets if it results in an immediate talent upgrade.
Strategic Outlook for the Trade Deadline
The Cowboys have already demonstrated a willingness to engage in the trade market, having recently acquired offensive tackle Broderick Jones from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for third- and sixth-round draft picks. This move signaled a proactive approach to team building that Jones appears ready to continue if the right opportunity arises.
With the NFL trade deadline set for November 10, the organization is balancing the desire to remain competitive in the short term with the long-term implications of sacrificing future draft assets. For now, the focus remains on evaluating the current roster and identifying potential areas where defensive depth can be enhanced to ensure the team is as strong as possible for the remainder of the campaign.
