NFL Rumors: Cowboys Could Make Another Blockbuster Trade After Embarrassing Loss
Jerry Jones has already traded for three prominent defensive players, and somehow the Dallas Cowboys still can’t stop the run. Thursday night’s 24-16 loss to Tampa Bay exposed the same problems Dallas has spent months trying to fix. Now, with the trade deadline approaching, the NFL Rumor Mill is heating up again, and Jones could be preparing to make another move.
Tampa Bay arrived in Dallas without a win, started an undrafted rookie quarterback, and left with a 24-16 victory. The Buccaneers rushed for 241 yards. That’s the kind of performance that sends a frustrated owner looking for answers, and the NFL Rumor Mill has already identified a few possibilities.
NFL Rumor Mill Connects Cowboys to Former First-Round Pick
Arizona Cardinals edge defender Zaven Collins was recently identified by Pro Football Focus as a potential trade target for Dallas.
The timing is interesting.
Collins entered Week 5 with a 90.6 run-defense grade, third among edge defenders. Dallas ranked last in that same category.
After watching Tampa Bay run through the Cowboys’ defense Thursday, it’s easy to understand why Collins would attract attention.
The NFL Rumor Mill also includes Chargers edge defender Tuli Tuipulotu among possible Dallas targets. He’s younger, offers more as a pass rusher, and could command a significantly higher price.
Neither player has been linked to confirmed trade negotiations. For now, these are possible destinations rather than actual offers.
Sep 27, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Zaven Collins (25) during halftime against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Jerry Jones Isn’t Finished Exploring Trades
Jones didn’t exactly discourage speculation following Thursday’s loss.
According to Garrett Podell of CBS Sports, the Cowboys owner remains willing to surrender future draft capital if an available player can help Dallas now and beyond this season.
That should keep the NFL Rumor Mill active.
But Dallas has already acquired Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, and Joey Porter Jr. Those moves were supposed to strengthen a defense that has struggled against the run.
Instead, Tampa Bay running back Bucky Irving rushed for 165 yards.
Jones described the performance as “extraordinarily disappointing”, and it’s difficult to argue with him.
The Cowboys have spent enough to expect better results.
Another Trade Could Leave Dallas With Fewer Options
Here’s what makes the NFL Rumor Mill particularly interesting.
Dallas surrendered a 2028 second-round pick and a 2027 sixth-round selection for Porter. Another expensive acquisition would further reduce the team’s ability to build through the draft.
Collins would provide help against the run, an obvious need after Thursday. Tuipulotu could add another productive young defender.
But neither would solve every problem.
Dallas has struggled with tackling, assignments, and allowing explosive plays. Those issues won’t disappear simply because Jones introduces another new player.
The NFL Rumor Mill might offer a tempting solution, but the Cowboys must determine whether their problems are related to personnel or execution.
Oct 8, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The Last Word
Dallas doesn’t play again until October 18 against Green Bay, giving Jones additional time to consider his options.
The NFL Rumor Mill will continue connecting the Cowboys with defensive help, particularly after Tampa Bay exposed their weaknesses on national television.
Collins makes sense as a potential target, although Arizona hasn’t publicly indicated it’s shopping him.
Jones could make another blockbuster move before the November 10 deadline. Nobody should be shocked if he does.
But the NFL Rumor Mill can only offer possibilities. At some point, the Cowboys need to stop acquiring defensive talent and start getting something out of the players they’ve already paid to bring in.
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