2025 proved to be an unusually active year for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL trade market. Throughout the offseason, draft, preseason, and regular season, the team’s front office engaged in a series of deals aimed at improving a roster perceived to be in need of significant changes. While some moves stemmed from contract disagreements, the Cowboys demonstrably pursued trades more aggressively than in previous years. The success of these efforts remains a key question.
1. The Micah Parsons Blockbuster
Cowboys Receive: DT Kenny Clark, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick.
Packers Receive: EDGE Micah Parsons.
Grade: B
The most significant trade saw Micah Parsons move from the Cowboys to the Green Bay Packers. The deal was graded a B, largely due to the acquisition of two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark. While Clark’s performance didn’t fully meet expectations, he was considered an upgrade. The grade wasn’t higher because the package received was not seen as commensurate with Parsons’ talent and age, especially when compared to a previously failed trade for Maxx Crosby. However, the substantial increase in draft capital was viewed as a positive for the Cowboys’ future flexibility.
2. The George Pickens Steal
Cowboys Receive: WR George Pickens.
Steelers Receive: 2026 Third-Round Pick.
Grade: A+
The acquisition of wide receiver George Pickens from the Pittsburgh Steelers for a third-round pick earned an A+ grade. The move was described as a “steal,” with the potential to either solidify the Cowboys’ receiving corps or provide a valuable trade asset in the future.
3. The Quinnen Williams Midseason Move
Cowboys Receive: DT Quinnen Williams
Jets Receive: DT Mazi Smith, 2026 Second-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick (Highest of GB’s or DAL’s).
Grade: A-
A midseason trade brought defensive tackle Quinnen Williams to Dallas from the Fresh York Jets in exchange for Mazi Smith, a 2026 second-round pick, and a 2027 first-round pick. Williams quickly became the team’s most talented defensive tackle in at least a decade, earning the trade an A- grade. The trade was seen as a win for Dallas, securing a key defensive piece for years to come.
4. The Kenneth Murray & Kaiir Elam Disasters
Cowboys Receive: LB Kenneth Murray, 2025 Seventh-Round Pick.
Chargers Receive: 2025 Sixth-Round Pick.
+
Cowboys Receive: CB Kaiir Elam, 2025 Seventh-Round Pick.
Bills Receive: 2025 Fifth-Round Pick.
Combined Grade: F
The acquisitions of linebacker Kenneth Murray and cornerback Kaiir Elam were deemed failures, receiving a combined grade of F. Despite costing minimal draft capital, both players proved detrimental to the defense due to poor performance. The Cowboys were criticized for misjudging player evaluations in these instances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the Micah Parsons trade?
The Cowboys received Kenny Clark, a 2026 First-Round Pick, and a 2027 First-Round Pick from the Packers in exchange for EDGE Micah Parsons. The trade was graded a B.
How was the trade for George Pickens evaluated?
The acquisition of George Pickens from the Steelers for a 2026 Third-Round Pick was graded an A+, described as a “steal” for the Cowboys.
What was the combined grade for the Kenneth Murray and Kaiir Elam trades?
The combined grade for the trades involving Kenneth Murray and Kaiir Elam was an F, as both players were considered detrimental to the team’s performance.
Given the wide range of outcomes from these trades – from the resounding success of acquiring George Pickens to the outright failures of the Murray and Elam deals – how might these moves shape the Cowboys’ strategy in future trade negotiations?
