Dallas Cowboys going big: Three defensive stars Jerry Jones could target before the deadline originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Following reports of Jerry Jones planning a significant roster upgrade before the November 4th trade deadline, the Dallas Cowboys are aggressively pursuing defensive reinforcements to fix what has become a bottom-tier unit.

With the team hovering around the .500 mark, a major move is anticipated, especially after the offseason departure of Micah Parsons.

The front office is reportedly focused on adding star power to the trenches and the second level.

Here are three defensive difference-makers the Cowboys could aggressively target before the deadline.

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Trade target one: Maxx Crosby

Crosby is an elite, high-motor player who addresses the void left by Parsons.

While the Raiders are reportedly reluctant to deal him, Dallas possesses the draft capital (two 2026 first-round picks) to make an offer Las Vegas cannot refuse.

Crosby is a rare top-five edge defender who excels against both the run and the pass.

Acquiring him sends a massive statement of intent, injecting proven leadership and relentless pressure that the Dallas defence desperately lacks.

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Trade target two: Quinnen Williams

If the Raiders refuse to move Crosby, the Cowboys could pivot to an equally disruptive, but potentially more attainable, interior force.

Williams is an All-Pro interior presence who would transform Dallas’s run defense (currently 4th worst in the NFL).

The Jets are 0-7 and may consider moving him for premium draft capital.

Adding Williams alongside Osa Odighizuwa creates an interior wall that few teams can handle, complementing the pass rushers on the edge.

While the Jets are reportedly seeking a first-round pick, Dallas has assets to make it happen.

Trade target three: Logan Wilson

With the Cowboys’ linebacking corps struggling with gap integrity and coverage, adding an established captain from the AFC could be a savvy move.

Wilson has requested a trade after a reduced role in Cincinnati.

He is a proven tackler with league-leading production in past seasons and offers the leadership Dallas needs at LB.

The Cowboys’ linebacking unit needs an immediate upgrade in tackling and discipline.

Wilson is under contract through 2027, offering a multi-year solution.

For a reasonable price (likely a Day 2 pick), he could solve their communication issues at the heart of the defence.