Dallas Cowboys Explore Patrick Queen Trade but Opt for Draft Strategy
The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2026 offseason facing a glaring defensive deficiency, particularly at the linebacker position, which struggled significantly throughout the 2025 NFL season. In response, trade rumors began circulating, with Pittsburgh Steelers standout Patrick Queen emerging as a prominent target for the Cowboys. However, the situation proved more complex than initial speculation suggested.
Internal Discussions and Realistic Targets
According to Dallas Morning News reporter Calvin Watkins, the Cowboys internally evaluated multiple linebacker options to bolster their defense. The list included Patrick Queen, along with Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker. A viral social media post further fueled speculation, stating, "The #Cowboys have interest in #Steelers LB Patrick Queen." This interest stemmed from a dire need, as starters Kenneth Murray and Shemar James posted sub-40.0 grades on Pro Football Focus in 2025, ranking among the league's least effective duos.
The Cowboys moved on from Murray, while Jack Sanborn and Logan Wilson also departed, with Wilson retiring. DeMarvion Overshown remains the only confirmed starter for 2026. As Dean and Walker reunited with the Raiders, Patrick Queen became the most realistic trade target linked to Dallas in ongoing discussions.
Complications and Performance Concerns
Several factors complicated a potential trade for Patrick Queen. Financially, Queen is due $13.33 million in 2026 as part of a three-year, $41 million contract he signed with Pittsburgh in 2024. Performance-wise, his 2025 season showed a decline, with a career-high 20.4% missed tackle rate and 829 yards allowed in coverage. These statistics raised red flags for a Cowboys team already working to stabilize its defensive unit.
From the Steelers' perspective, the situation is equally nuanced. Queen has maintained productivity, recording over 120 tackles in recent seasons, but expectations remain high. With Pittsburgh undergoing a coaching transition and facing long-term contract decisions, trade speculation persisted but did not materialize into a deal.
Shift to Draft and Timing Mismatch
Despite the buzz, the Cowboys did not pursue a trade for Patrick Queen. Instead, they are now focusing on the 2026 NFL Draft, where a deep linebacker class offers a potentially cheaper and more stable solution to their defensive woes. Timing also played a role; Pittsburgh, already equipped with a full slate of draft picks, would likely seek future value rather than mid-round selections in 2026, creating a mismatch in expectations that hindered negotiations.
For now, trade chatter surrounding Patrick Queen has cooled, but as team needs evolve and the draft approaches, this situation remains one to monitor closely for potential developments.
