Rich Eisen has proposed that the Dallas Cowboys trade their 12th overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft for pass rusher Maxx Crosby to strengthen their defense. Eisen believes this move could significantly boost the team’s chances of becoming Super Bowl contenders, especially if Crosby teams up with defensive lineman Quinnen Williams.
The Cowboys currently hold two first-round selections, number 12 and 20, following a series of trades last season. Most mock drafts predict the team will use these picks to select defensive players, potentially aiming to fill the void left by Trevon Diggs with prospects such as Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy or Ohio State pass rusher Sonny Styles. Despite Styles being praised as a potential successor to Micah Parsons, there are doubts he will be available at the Cowboys’ draft positions.
Instead, Eisen recommends the Cowboys pursue an experienced player now rather than betting on a rookie’s potential.
If they’re able to take the 12th overall pick, and instead of using it on a young defender, get Maxx Crosby for it… You go to work with Quinnen, Maxx Crosby, and Kenny Clark… You are not too far away, you’re just not.
Rich Eisen, Analyst
Eisen further suggests that Dallas should complement Crosby by drafting another young pass rusher to play alongside him, solidifying their defensive line and positioning the team as legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
Dez Bryant Supports Move to Bring Crosby to Dallas
Former Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant has expressed his enthusiasm for the possibility of Maxx Crosby joining Dallas. Understanding both the challenges and culture of the franchise, Bryant sees Crosby’s work ethic as a valuable influence in the locker room and on the field.
On social media, Bryant posted a message encouraging the trade, signaling his belief that it would be beneficial for the team’s future.
Maxx Crosby, it’s only right!
Dez Bryant, Former Cowboys Wide Receiver
The comments from Bryant align with the growing buzz surrounding Jerry Jones’ apparent interest in bringing the 28-year-old pass rusher to Dallas, further fueling speculation around the Cowboys’ offseason strategy.
ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky Sees Cowboys as Title Contenders with Defensive Upgrades
While discussions continue regarding the Cowboys’ defensive strategy, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky has projected that the team could emerge as strong Super Bowl contenders by making several key acquisitions. Orlovsky points out that the NFC remains highly competitive but believes Dallas’ championship-caliber offense, paired with defensive improvements, could change the team’s fortunes quickly.
The NFC is wide open… If you are Dallas and Jerry Jones, and you have a championship-caliber offense. You’re not as bad as your defense was last year, you’re not that far away on defense. You get two or three impactful players… I think you’ve got a chance to contend right away.
Dan Orlovsky, ESPN Analyst
Orlovsky emphasizes that addressing defensive weaknesses will be crucial, and believes that impactful defensive players, such as Crosby, would elevate the Cowboys from playoff hopefuls to championship contenders.
Evaluation of the Cowboys’ Draft Prospects and Defensive Needs
The Cowboys face multiple options at their two first-round picks. With Trevon Diggs’ exit creating a need in the secondary, the team might target cornerback Jermod McCoy to fill that gap. Alternatively, hope remains to secure highly touted pass rusher Sonny Styles, though his availability remains uncertain.
Amid this, Rich Eisen’s suggestion to exchange a first-round pick for Crosby reflects a preference for proven defensive talent over potential rookies. Crosby’s performance history and intensity could provide the immediate defensive impact Dallas requires.
Significance of Maxx Crosby’s Potential Arrival in Dallas
Bringing Crosby to Dallas would add a seasoned pass rusher to a defensive line that already features players like Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark. The combination of experienced talent and youth could accelerate the Cowboys’ defensive development.
Such a move would also address concerns about the team’s defensive consistency and intensity, potentially making the Cowboys more formidable opponents in the NFC.
The support from figures like Rich Eisen and Dez Bryant, combined with Dan Orlovsky’s confidence in the team’s potential, places pressure on Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office to act decisively during the offseason.
As Jerry Jones explores trade conversations, the decisions made regarding Maxx Crosby and draft picks will likely influence the Cowboys’ trajectory in the 2026 season and beyond.
"If they're able to take the 12th overall pick, and instead of using it on a young defender, get Maxx Crosby for it. … You are not too far away, you're just not."@richeisen believes the Cowboys can be contenders if they trade for Maxx Crosby 👀
(via @RichEisenShow) pic.twitter.com/TzNcweo2Ir
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) March 2, 2026
.@CrosbyMaxx it’s only right! https://t.co/hl0kkzSlMk
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) March 2, 2026
"The NFC is wide open. … As bad as your defense was last year, you're not that far away on defense."@danorlovsky7 on how far the Cowboys are from contending for a championship 🏆 pic.twitter.com/XtJQlT4mt0
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 2, 2026
