The Dallas Cowboys have agreed to acquire pass rusher Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick, with the transaction set to be finalized when the new NFL league year begins on March 11. This move bolsters the Cowboys’ defensive front as they seek to enhance their pass rush capabilities ahead of the upcoming season.
Rashan Gary’s Career and Recent Performance
Gary, 28, has spent his entire seven-year NFL career with the Packers, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2024. Over that time, he has accumulated 46.5 career sacks. In the 2025 season alone, he started 15 games and recorded 7.5 sacks, along with 20 quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. His arrival in Dallas reunites him with former Packers teammate Kenny Clark, providing continuity within the Cowboys’ defensive line.
Connections Between Gary and Dallas Defensive Staff
Several ties exist between Gary and members of the Cowboys’ defensive coaching team. Defensive coordinator Christian Parker was serving as a defensive quality control coach in Green Bay when Gary was drafted in 2019, meaning their NFL careers began simultaneously. Additionally, defensive pass game coordinator Derrick Ansley worked alongside Gary in Green Bay as the Packers’ passing game coordinator during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Gary has also trained with new Cowboys pass rush consultant Brandon Jordan and is expected to continue this collaboration in Dallas.
Jerry Jones Emphasizes Commitment to Defensive Improvement
Dallas owner and general manager Jerry Jones expressed his willingness to invest future draft capital to improve the team’s defense during the NFL Combine. He stated,
“The only way to push more is for me to go borrow some of my future. Expect me to go borrow some of my future…”
Jones emphasized the goal to strengthen the defense’s ability to stop opponents and convert critical third downs, acknowledging this area as a priority even if it means stretching the team’s budget.
Trade Context and Impact on Cowboys-Packers Relations
This transaction marks the second recent trade involving pass rushers between the Cowboys and Packers. Prior to the 2025 season, Dallas traded Micah Parsons to Green Bay in exchange for two first-round draft picks and Kenny Clark. Now, Dallas has turned to Green Bay again to bring in Gary, signaling a strategic effort to rebuild and reinforce their defensive lineup. The trade is expected to significantly impact the Cowboys’ pass rush strength and contribute to their defensive schemes moving forward.
