Cowboys Rebuild Defense with Trades, Signings, Draft Focus

The Dallas Cowboys are aggressively rebuilding their defense this offseason, following a dismal 2025 campaign that saw the unit rank last in the NFL and contribute to the team's second consecutive playoff miss. With new defensive coordinator Christian Parker at the helm, the Cowboys have already made several key acquisitions through trades and free agency, while eyeing further bolstering via potential deals and the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

Last season, Dallas struggled profoundly on defense, finishing 7-9 overall after trading star edge rusher Micah Parsons and posting the league's worst performance in key metrics, including run defense and overall impact ratings. The unit allowed opponents to exploit weaknesses across the line, linebacker corps, and secondary, prompting the dismissal of coordinator Matt Eberflus after just one year. Parker's hiring, drawn from his role in Philadelphia's staff, marks his first time leading a defense, with the team shifting toward a more versatile 3-4 scheme that emphasizes flexible player roles.

To jump-start the turnaround, the Cowboys executed a trade for Green Bay Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary, adding a proven pass-rushing threat to the...