The Dallas Cowboys are not typically known for making bold moves in team building, but they have pulled off major trades before, such as acquiring Amari Cooper from the Raiders in 2018. Now, according to Sporting News, it might be time for another big trade to boost their chances in the NFC East.
A proposed deal suggests that Dallas could send their No. 76 overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, along with a 2026 third-round pick, to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for star running back Christian McCaffrey.
McCaffrey is coming off a rough season in which he played only four games due to Achilles tendonitis and a torn PCL. However, when healthy, he remains one of the league’s top offensive threats. In 2023, he had a stellar season with San Francisco, rushing for 1,459 yards and 14 touchdowns on 272 carries, while also catching 67 passes for 564 yards and seven touchdowns. His performance earned him NFL Offensive Player of the Year, a fourth All-Pro selection, and a third Pro Bowl nod.
The biggest question is whether San Francisco is even willing to part ways with their top offensive weapon. However, given their ongoing roster shake-ups, the idea of moving McCaffrey isn’t out of the question. Some reports suggest that if a trade doesn’t happen now, he could still be dealt before the NFL Trade Deadline.
For the Cowboys, adding McCaffrey would certainly fill a major need at running back, but there are several reasons why the move may not happen. Dallas is currently focused on negotiating an extension with Micah Parsons, who has been the subject of trade rumors, as well as securing a deal for cornerback DaRon Bland. Additionally, the Cowboys have historically been hesitant to invest heavily in the running back position, especially considering McCaffrey’s $19 million per year salary and injury history.
Despite the appeal of adding an elite talent, it seems unlikely that Dallas would take the risk on an aging, injury-prone player—especially at a position they have not prioritized in recent years.