The NFL’s new league year will unofficially begin this [afternoon](http://Predicting the first three 2026 NFL Free Agency signings). Teams will attempt to finalize trades, sign free agents, and make difficult roster cuts before Wednesday’s official start of the league year.
The Green Bay Packers had planned to release veteran pass rusher Rashan Gary before Monday. However, a sudden turn of events has changed Gary’s future.
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Reports indicate that the Dallas Cowboys have traded for Gary ahead of the new league year, sending a fourth-round pick in exchange for the Pro Bowler.
Just a few days ago, Gary posted a goodbye message to Packers fans—though he later claimed his social media account had been “hacked.” Now, Gary will officially depart from Green Bay.
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The Cowboys will add a much-needed pass rusher to their defense. Last season, the defense missed Micah Parsons after the team traded him to the Packers.
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Adding Gary also gives the Cowboys more flexibility as they approach free agency. The team had previously been linked to several pass rushers, but it can now focus on other needs on the roster.
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Rashan Gary (52) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Packers selected Gary in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. During his time in Green Bay, he recorded 46.5 sacks, 46 tackles for loss, and 111 quarterback hits.
Could the Cowboys’ acquisition of Gary become the steal of the 2026 offseason?
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