$50 Million Star Considered Priority for Dallas Cowboys in NFL Free Agency

The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical offseason, particularly when it comes to bolstering their defensive unit. After missing the playoffs in 2025, many of the team’s issues on the field were linked to a struggling defense—a defensive unit that lacked the consistent pressure they needed to keep opposing offenses in check. One area where the Cowboys need significant improvement is at edge rusher, where they’ve failed to replace the lost production from Micah Parsons following his trade to the Green Bay Packers.

With Dallas’ defense in dire need of a dynamic pass rusher, the team is reportedly zeroing in on Trey Hendrickson, the standout edge rusher for the Cincinnati Bengals, as a top priority during NFL free agency. According to CBS Sports’ Jared Dubin, Hendrickson is the perfect fit for what the Cowboys need—a top-tier pass rusher who could bring a much-needed spark to the defensive line.

Hendrickson: The Solution to the Cowboys’ Pass Rush Woes?

The Cowboys’ defense was one of the main reasons they failed to make the playoffs in 2025. Despite having superstar talent like Micah Parsons—before his trade—Dallas lacked a consistent pass rush and struggled to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Now, as they prepare for the 2026 season, the Cowboys need to make a major move to strengthen their defensive front, especially after the Micah Parsons trade that left a significant hole at edge rusher.

Enter Trey Hendrickson, one of the league’s top edge rushers who is now set to hit the free-agent market. Hendrickson, projected to earn $50 million over two years in his next contract, has been a dominant force on the Bengals’ defensive line. In the 2023-24 season, he led the league in sacks with 35, solidifying his place as an elite pass rusher. Although he had a slightly down season in 2025, largely due to an injury, Hendrickson still posted four sacks in just seven games and would have likely had another stellar year if not for the injury.

Why the Cowboys Should Target Hendrickson

Jared Dubin believes Hendrickson is exactly what the Dallas Cowboys need in their pass rush. “Dallas needs pass rush help in the worst way, and Hendrickson is the best available edge rusher on the market,” Dubin said. While Hendrickson will likely command a high price—a short-term deal likely in the $50 million range—the Cowboys are in a position where they can afford to take a risk. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, has long justified some of his financial decisions on the premise that the team could afford to add more players by not paying top money to players like Parsons. Now, it’s time for him to prove it by going after Hendrickson and adding an elite rusher to Dallas’ defensive line.

Despite his injury-plagued 2025 season, Hendrickson remains one of the most productive pass rushers in the league. His ability to generate pressure and create havoc in the backfield would bring a much-needed upgrade to the Cowboys’ defense and help balance out their attack on both sides of the ball. Adding him to the Cowboys’ defense would immediately make their pass rush more formidable, providing more support for the secondary and giving the team a solid chance at improving their overall defensive performance.

Hendrickson’s Contract Situation: What Are the Odds of Him Hitting Free Agency?

While Hendrickson would be a perfect fit for the Cowboys, there are a few hurdles that could complicate Dallas’ pursuit. The Cincinnati Bengals, his current team, may not be eager to let him walk in free agency. Hendrickson, who has made his desire for a new contract clear over the past few seasons, could find himself the victim of a franchise tag from the Bengals. A franchise tag would keep Hendrickson in Cincinnati for another season, providing the team with more leverage and potentially more time to negotiate a longer-term deal.

This potential roadblock is certainly something the Cowboys need to consider as they formulate their free-agent plans. If the Bengals place the franchise tag on Hendrickson, it could significantly affect his market value and give Cincinnati more time to figure out a long-term deal. However, Dallas should not be deterred if this happens. They should still consider pursuing Hendrickson aggressively, even if they must compete with other teams who may also enter the bidding war for the 28-year-old rusher’s services.

The Cowboys’ Pursuit: Will Hendrickson Join the Dallas Defense?

Given their need for an upgrade at edge rusher, the Dallas Cowboys should place a high priority on Trey Hendrickson in 2026 free agency. His proven ability to pressure quarterbacks and generate sacks, combined with his experience as a defensive leader, makes him one of the most valuable players available on the market. Though his injury in 2025 may raise some concerns, one down year does not erase his elite potential.

The Cowboys have already shown interest in Hendrickson, reportedly inquiring with the Bengals about a potential trade before last year’s trade deadline. This shows that Dallas is already familiar with Hendrickson’s value and sees him as a significant upgrade. Should the Bengals fail to place a franchise tag on Hendrickson, the Cowboys should move quickly to secure his services, as he could be a cornerstone of their defensive line for years to come.

Final Thoughts: Hendrickson’s Future with Dallas

As the 2026 free agency period heats up, Trey Hendrickson is likely to be one of the most sought-after pass rushers on the market. The Dallas Cowboys must make a strong push to land him, as he could provide the defensive edge they need to contend for Super Bowl glory next season. With a high price tag, Hendrickson won’t come cheap, but his track record of success and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks make him a perfect fit for Dallas’ defense.

Whether or not Hendrickson hits the open market remains to be seen, but if he does, the Cowboys should do everything in their power to secure the $50 million star and bring him into the fold as they prepare for the 2026 season.