The Dallas Cowboys are in a prime position to be competitive this season, but they could benefit from a few strategic roster improvements. While the team tends to value their draft picks, they have enough future assets to consider trades that would address their current needs. The 2024 season is crucial, and enhancing certain areas of their lineup could boost their chances of making a deep playoff run.
Here are three potential trade targets the Cowboys should consider to improve their roster for the current campaign.
1. Nick Chubb, Running Back – Cleveland Browns
The Cowboys’ rushing attack has been underwhelming this season, generating only four rushing plays of over 10 yards in the first four games. For a team that was known for its strong offensive output last year, this regression is concerning. Addressing this shortcoming should be a priority.
Nick Chubb, who recently rejoined the Cleveland Browns at practice after recovering from a season-ending knee injury, could be the solution. He is now fully a year removed from his injury and might be available for trade, especially considering the Browns’ struggles this season and the fact that Chubb is in the final year of his contract.
Chubb represents a low-risk, high-reward option for the Cowboys. His addition would instantly upgrade the team’s rushing attack, making him a valuable asset as RB1. His ability to break tackles and create big plays would also open up opportunities for the rest of the offense. Chubb’s presence would provide a significant boost to a team looking to recapture its offensive prowess from last season.
2. John Metchie III, Wide Receiver – Houston Texans
Much like their running game, the Cowboys’ passing game has lacked explosiveness. They have managed only 11 passing plays over 10 yards through the first few weeks, ranking near the bottom of the league. Adding a deep-threat receiver could give the offense a spark, and John Metchie III from the Houston Texans might be the perfect fit.
Metchie is an intriguing option. After tearing his ACL in his final college game at Alabama, he was drafted in the second round by the Texans, but his rookie year was further delayed by a leukemia diagnosis. Now fully healthy, Metchie has struggled to find playing time in a crowded Texans wide receiver room.
A trade for Metchie is another low-risk, high-reward scenario for Dallas. His talent is undeniable, and he has the versatility to play both inside and outside. Metchie’s football IQ, particularly his ability to find open space in the passing game, would make him a valuable complement to star receiver CeeDee Lamb. Bringing in Metchie could inject the Cowboys’ passing game with the explosiveness it currently lacks.
3. Joshua Uche, Defensive End – New England Patriots
The Cowboys’ defense took a hit recently when both Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence were injured during their matchup with the New York Giants. While the team signed K.J. Henry to bolster their defensive end depth, the position remains thin, and adding another pass rusher could be crucial to maintaining their defensive strength.
Joshua Uche of the New England Patriots would be a great addition. At 26 years old, Uche is in the final year of his contract, making him a realistic trade target. Standing at 6’3″ and 240 pounds, Uche boasts a strong pass-rushing grade of 74.0 according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). He has the physical tools and skills to help fill the void left by the injured Parsons and Lawrence.
Uche’s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks would provide immediate assistance to the Cowboys’ defense, which has struggled at times to generate consistent pressure. Given the uncertainty around Parsons and Lawrence’s injuries, securing Uche would ensure that Dallas has the depth needed to maintain their pass-rushing effectiveness for the remainder of the season.
Conclusion
The Cowboys are in a position where a few well-timed trades could make a significant difference in their playoff aspirations. Acquiring Nick Chubb would reinvigorate the running game, while John Metchie III could add much-needed explosiveness to the passing attack. Meanwhile, bringing in Joshua Uche would bolster the defensive end position, helping to keep pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
All three players represent low-risk, high-reward opportunities. With the potential to be acquired at a reasonable price, they offer the Cowboys a chance to upgrade their roster without mortgaging their future. If Dallas wants to maximize its chances of making a deep postseason run, pursuing these trades could be the answer.
