The Dallas Cowboys have a multitude of needs to address this offseason, and it’s unclear where to begin. With positions like wide receiver, running back, defensive tackle, cornerback, and linebacker to fill, the front office will need more than just the draft to fix these gaps.
After witnessing the Eagles dominate the Chiefs in Super Bowl 59, it’s clear that Dallas must fortify their defensive line. Re-signing Osa Odighizuwa should be their top priority, and adding a defensive tackle through the draft, given its depth this year, would be a wise move.
On offense, Dak Prescott is clearly advocating for the signing of a quality running back. While RB is a significant need, the wide receiver position arguably needs more attention.
Fortunately for Dallas, high-profile wideouts are often available each offseason, and Cooper Kupp, a long-time Rams star, is one of them. Although Kupp prefers to finish his career with the NFC West team, the Rams have informed him that he will be traded.
Multiple insiders have weighed in on Kupp’s potential trade value.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter compared Kupp’s value to that of former Chargers receiver Keenan Allen, who was traded for a fourth-round pick last offseason. Schefter expects Kupp to bring in similar or identical compensation.
Mike DeFabo, a Steelers reporter for The Athletic, also believes Kupp will be traded for a fourth-round pick.
If a fourth-round pick is the price for Kupp, Dallas should make a call to the Rams immediately. However, the Cowboys don’t have a fourth-round pick this year.
Does that mean the Rams will try to get third- and fifth-round picks from Jerry Jones to make up the difference? Or does the absence of a fourth-round pick rule out Dallas as a potential destination for Kupp? Rams general manager Les Snead will likely want immediate returns for a player of Kupp’s caliber, so a 2026 fourth-round pick might not be enough.
Though it’s not ideal, Dallas should still pursue gauging the Rams’ interest.
While Kupp is past 30 and has missed 18 games in the last three seasons, he remains a reliable security blanket for any quarterback and knows how to find soft spots in zone coverage. He also ranked in the 79th percentile in separation rate in 2024, showing he still has plenty to offer.
Health is certainly a concern with Kupp, but he would be the Cowboys’ best WR2 since Amari Cooper. Currently, they lack a genuine threat behind CeeDee Lamb and may not have the flexibility to draft a receiver early.
The Rams are likely to cover some of Kupp’s salary to help facilitate a trade. If Dallas can negotiate a fair price, acquiring Kupp should be a no-brainer.