The Dallas Cowboys have been focused on revamping their defense this offseason, beginning with changes in their coaching staff before targeting key players. After missing out on Maxx Crosby, who was traded to the Baltimore Ravens, the Cowboys shifted their attention and acquired Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick. This move aligns with their goal to enhance defensive performance, especially as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
Last season’s outcomes highlighted the need for improvement on the defensive line, further emphasized by the uncertain futures of Jadeveon Clowney and Donovan Ezeiruaku. Clowney is likely to become a free agent, and Ezeiruaku will be sidelined for the offseason program following hip surgery. Gary’s addition brings a player with 46.5 career sacks, ranking sixth in Packers history, and a 7.5 sack performance last season, although he struggled in the latter half. Dallas is counting on Gary’s consistency to help turn around their defensive struggles.
Cowboys trade grade: B+
Green Bay focuses on salary flexibility and future plans
The Packers had been exploring trade options for Rashan Gary, who appeared prepared for the transition, even posting a farewell message to the team on social media before it was reportedly hacked and removed. The trade has freed up about $11 million in salary cap space for Green Bay this season while securing a future draft pick. This financial flexibility could be crucial as the Packers approach free agency and the draft.
With Micah Parsons expected to miss the first month of next season due to an ACL injury, the Packers face challenges in maintaining a strong defensive line. Additionally, free agent Kingsley Enagbare’s status remains unclear, adding to the uncertainty about who will fill the defensive end positions. The team will likely seek new talent through the draft or trades to rebuild their defensive frontline.
Packers trade grade: C+
Potential effects and future directions for both teams
Dallas’s acquisition of Rashan Gary reflects their urgent need to solidify the defensive line, especially with key free agents uncertain and injuries impacting depth. If Gary can deliver steady performance throughout the season, the Cowboys may see a notable improvement in defensive effectiveness. On the other hand, Green Bay’s decision to trade Gary provides crucial salary relief but leaves questions about how they will address their defensive end lineup.
As the offseason progresses, the Packers’ strategy in free agency and the draft will be closely watched, particularly regarding defensive reinforcements. For the Cowboys, success in integrating Gary could be critical to reversing last year’s defensive struggles and boosting their competitiveness.
Trade: the Green Bay Packers are finalizing a deal that would send DT Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a late-round 2027 draft pick, per ESPN sources. pic.twitter.com/1s2qXSvFeu
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2026
