The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for the 2026 season with the clear goal of returning to the playoffs after a disappointing 2025 campaign.

The primary reason for last year’s struggles was the defense. Dallas consistently underperformed on that side of the ball, prompting major offseason changes aimed at correcting the issues. One of the most significant moves was the firing of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, along with multiple additions to the defense in free agency.

A key area of concern remains the pass rush. The Cowboys traded Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers just before the 2025 season, and unsurprisingly, the defense struggled to generate consistent pressure without their former superstar edge rusher.

In response, Dallas acquired Rashan Gary to help stabilize the edge group. While Gary has proven to be a productive pass rusher, the Cowboys are still searching for additional firepower to fully restore their defensive identity.

Now, another potential solution has emerged on the trade market.

Josh Sweat linked as a potential Cowboys target

Arizona Cardinals edge rusher Josh Sweat is reportedly being viewed as a possible trade candidate. Sweat joined Arizona last offseason on a four-year, $76 million deal and immediately delivered strong production.

In 2025, Sweat recorded 12 sacks, 30 total tackles, and 13 tackles for loss, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s more disruptive pass rushers. However, reports suggest he may be unhappy with his current situation in Arizona, and his absence from OTAs has only fueled speculation about a potential move.

If the Cardinals decide to explore trade options, the Cowboys are widely seen as a logical landing spot.

According to Donnie Druin of Cardinals on SI, Dallas would be an ideal fit for Sweat given its urgent need for pass-rush help following the Parsons trade. Druin noted that adding a proven edge rusher like Sweat—coming off a career-best sack season—could significantly elevate the Cowboys’ defense.

For Dallas, the appeal is obvious. Pairing Sweat with Rashan Gary would immediately strengthen the edge rotation, with young players like Malachi Lawrence and Donovan Ezeiruaku providing depth behind them. The result could transform the pass rush from a weakness into one of the team’s most reliable strengths.

This type of move also fits the Cowboys’ aggressive roster-building approach. Not only would they be acquiring a high-level talent, but also a player with experience competing in the division, adding familiarity and added motivation to the potential acquisition.

If the opportunity arises, Josh Sweat could represent exactly the kind of win-now addition Dallas needs to push back into playoff contention in 2026.