Cowboys pull off a jaw-dropping move by signing the Raiders’ unhappy defensive powerhouse and teaming him with Quinnen Williams to create a fearsome All-Pro duo.QQ
In a stunning twist that could redefine the Dallas Cowboys’ defense, the team is poised to make a blockbuster move in the 2026 NFL offseason. According to a recent mock draft by James Fragoza of Pro Football Sports Network, the Cowboys are projected to trade for Las Vegas Raiders’ All-Pro defensive end Maxx Crosby, pairing him with their newly acquired defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. This dynamic duo could transform Dallas’ beleaguered defensive line into one of the league’s most formidable units, signaling a shocking new chapter for America’s Team.
The Cowboys’ 2025 season has been a tale of two sides. With a high-octane offense led by stars like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, expectations were sky-high. Yet, entering Week 16 with a disappointing 6-7-1 record, it’s the defense that’s been the Achilles’ heel. Ranking among the worst in the NFL for points allowed and yards surrendered, Dallas has struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stop the run. Offseason priorities are clear: bolster the defensive front to complement their offensive firepower.
Enter Quinnen Williams, the dominant force Dallas snagged from the New York Jets just before the 2025 trade deadline. In exchange for a 2027 first-round pick and their 2026 second-rounder, the Cowboys landed the All-Pro defensive tackle, whose disruptive presence in the interior line has already shown flashes of turning games around. Williams, known for his explosive first step and ability to collapse pockets, brings a level of interior dominance that Dallas has lacked since the days of Randy White.
But Fragoza’s mock draft takes it a step further, envisioning an even bolder acquisition. With frustrations mounting in Las Vegas—where Crosby has voiced his desire to compete in meaningful January football—the Raiders are predicted to grant him a fresh start. The proposed deal: Dallas sends their second first-round pick in 2026 (acquired via earlier maneuvers) and a 2027 third-rounder to the Raiders for the elite pass rusher. Crosby, a perennial Pro Bowler with double-digit sacks in multiple seasons, has been the heart and soul of the Raiders’ defense, amassing over 50 sacks in his career and earning All-Pro honors for his relentless motor and edge-setting ability.
“Maxx Crosby’s frustrations have finally started to come out, and if he ever wants to play meaningful football in January, he’ll need a fresh start,” Fragoza noted. “The Raiders grant him just that, as the Cowboys use their newfound draft capital to land an elite pass rusher (didn’t they use to have one of those?).”
Imagine the synergy: Williams commanding double teams in the middle, freeing up Crosby to wreak havoc off the edge. This All-Pro tandem could forge an unstoppable defensive line, reminiscent of the Cowboys’ legendary “Doomsday Defense.” With cap space to spare and a commitment to fixing their defensive woes, Dallas would instantly elevate from pretenders to contenders, potentially dominating the NFC East and beyond.
Not stopping at defense, Fragoza’s mock also has the Cowboys addressing offense with their No. 14 overall pick, selecting USC wide receiver Makai Lemon. The explosive playmaker, renowned for his yards-after-catch ability and route-running savvy, could either replace an aging George Pickens or form a trio of elite wideouts alongside Lamb and others. Lemon’s addition would ensure the offense remains a juggernaut, providing balance to the revamped defense.
While this is still a mock scenario, the Cowboys were indeed linked to Crosby ahead of the 2025 deadline, hinting at real interest. If this trade materializes, it could mark the beginning of a dominant era in Dallas, where an unstoppable All-Pro line leads the charge back to Super Bowl glory. Cowboys fans, buckle up—this shocking new chapter might just be the turnaround they’ve been waiting for.
