The Dallas Cowboys have made headlines after restructuring contracts for defensive tackle Kenny Clark, cornerback DaRon Bland, and tight end Jake Ferguson, which has opened up approximately $19 million in salary cap space. Prior to these changes, the Cowboys had around $14.2 million in cap space, which was bolstered by the Quinnen Williams extension.
With the new restructures, the team's total cap space now stands at about $33.2 million, with some estimates suggesting it could be as high as $34.8 million.
This increase in cap space gives the Cowboys significant financial flexibility as they prepare for the 2026 season. Most NFL teams typically operate with around $8 to $10 million in cap space, meaning Dallas is well-positioned for various options.
However, NFL Network's Jane Slater and Nick Harris from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram have indicated that these moves are not necessarily aimed at facilitating an immediate trade.
According to reports, the Cowboys appear to be preparing for potential trade opportunities later in the season rather than making moves before the season begins. Joseph Hoyt from The Dallas Morning News echoed this sentiment, suggesting that any significant trades would likely occur closer to the trade deadline, similar to the Quinnen Williams trade from the previous year.
Fans have speculated about a possible trade for Maxx Crosby, especially since the Cowboys had previously shown interest in acquiring him before he was traded to the Baltimore Ravens. However, given Crosby's renewed commitment to the Raiders, a trade before the season seems unlikely.
