The Dallas Cowboys are exploring all options to improve at inside linebacker. That includes considering the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Patrick Queen. Per NFL Network’s Jane Slater, as plugged into Dallas as any reporter, the Cowboys have Queen on their list of options. Slater, however, notes he might not be the most likely acquisition option.
“Patrick Queen: “looking at it” but this isn’t a strong pursuit right now,” she wrote on Twitter/X of Queen.
For those asking:
Fred Warner calls “no don’t think so”
Patrick Queen: “looking at it” but this isn’t a strong pursuit right now.
Basically they are aware of the LB-ers out there. They want to add a veteran but being diligent. Injury history part of this, familiarity… https://t.co/0a9WiSW0mX
— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) March 9, 2026
It’s not clear if the Cowboys are lukewarm on acquiring Queen or if Pittsburgh isn’t sold on trading him. Or both.
Entering the final year of his three-year deal signed ahead of the 2025 season, Queen has a $2.5 million roster bonus due March 15th. If Pittsburgh trades him, it’s logical to ship him out before that payment comes due.
Queen has had an up-and-down two seasons with Pittsburgh. Though durable and tough with impressive hot streaks, his play has been inconsistent with too many missed tackles and average run defense. The splash plays he was expected to make haven’t always been there, either. Through two seasons, he’s recorded 249 tackles (14 for a loss) with the Steelers.
Dallas is active in the inside linebacker market but has struggled to close a deal. Free agent linebackers Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean simultaneously signed deals with the Las Vegas Raiders, removing two of the top options. Devin Lloyd remains the top name, but his price tag won’t come cheap, and Dallas might balk at the idea.
Earlier Monday, the Steelers retained depth by re-signing Cole Holcomb. Some speculated it was a sign that Pittsburgh could cut Malik Harrison, but the team may view it as protection should Queen be traded away. Still, Holcomb wouldn’t likely assume Queen’s role as an every-down linebacker. Payton Wilson could take on the role, but he has struggled himself in staying on the field. With a dozen draft picks and a strong 2026 class, Pittsburgh could help bolster the position next month, too.
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