NFL Trade Market Heats Up: Implications for the Cowboys and League Dynamics

The NFL trade market has seen some surprising activity with two significant transactions: the Cleveland Browns sending Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens trading DE Odafe Oweh to the Los Angeles Chargers. With both the Browns and Bengals struggling, each team might be leaning toward a selling strategy, which could open up opportunities for other franchises, including the Dallas Cowboys.

Cowboys Seeking Defensive Reinforcements

Currently sitting at the bottom of the league in defensive EPA/play, the Cowboys are in dire need of defensive help. Earlier discussions have centered on the possibility of trading for Browns LB Devin Bush, but if Dallas aims higher, they should consider targeting Roquan Smith.

The Case for Roquan Smith

Smith, a three-time First-Team All-Pro, continues to be a standout player even after signing a $100 million contract extension with the Ravens in 2023. Adding him to a Cowboys defense that has struggled with missed tackles would significantly enhance their playoff prospects. The Cowboys have seen mixed results from linebackers like Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray, making Smith a game-changing addition.

Ravens’ Perspective

Kyle Crabbs, a Ravens analyst, suggests that the Ravens aren’t necessarily in a selling mode despite trading Oweh. They have a mix of young talent and reasonably priced veterans, and the decision to move Oweh may not indicate a broader strategy. However, with Smith’s injury history and the team’s looming free agency decisions, the Ravens might entertain offers for him.

Trade Package Considerations

To acquire Smith, the Cowboys would likely need to offer a package similar to what the Ravens paid when they traded for him in 2022: a 2nd and a 5th round pick. This is a substantial cost, especially for a Cowboys team that recently traded away its third-rounder for George Pickens.

While the Cowboys have four first-round picks over the next couple of years, they would need to feel confident in their playoff chances before committing to such a trade. A strong record, such as 5-3-1, could prompt Dallas to be more aggressive in pursuing Smith.

Conclusion

For now, any thoughts of Roquan Smith joining the Cowboys remain speculative. The Ravens aren’t fully committed to a selling strategy yet, and the Cowboys need to secure more wins to justify sacrificing valuable draft capital. As the trade deadline approaches, the dynamics of the NFL landscape will continue to evolve, potentially creating opportunities for teams willing to make bold moves.