🚨 DALLAS COWBOYS LOOKING TO FIX DEFENSE: Could a Trade for T.J. Watt Help? 👇

After a disastrous 2025 season, where the Dallas Cowboys‘ defense ranked among the worst in the NFL, improvements are absolutely necessary if they want to contend in the future. The Cowboys’ defense allowed the third-most yards per game and gave up an unbelievable 59 touchdowns, the highest in the league. What compounded these issues was the controversial trade of Micah Parsons, arguably the NFL’s top edge rusher, to the Green Bay Packers just before the season started. Without Parsons, the Cowboys lacked a dominant pass rusher, and the result was a defense that struggled to apply pressure consistently.

Now, with the offseason underway, the Cowboys could be looking to correct that move and bolster their defensive front. Rumors are circulating about a potential blockbuster trade that could see T.J. Watt, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ star pass rusher, head to Dallas.

T.J. Watt: A Proven Superstar Pass Rusher

T.J. Watt, who signed a three-year contract with the Steelers last offseason, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, could be on the move this offseason. Despite his enormous contract, Watt’s performance has been somewhat inconsistent over the past two seasons, which has raised some questions. After leading the NFL in sacks three times, including an incredible 19 sacks in 2023, Watt has only managed 18.5 sacks combined in 2024 and 2025. This drop-off, while still impressive by most standards, has led to speculation about his future in Pittsburgh, particularly with the Steelers’ direction as a franchise.

According to Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Steelers could receive as much as a second-round pick in a trade for Watt if they’re open to moving him. This offers a unique opportunity for teams like the Dallas Cowboys, who could make a major upgrade to their defense without having to break the bank for a full-blown rebuild.

“Top Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo said the most the Steelers could probably get in a trade this offseason for T.J. Watt is a 2nd round pick,” reported Andrew Fillipponi on X. This price tag could be incredibly appealing for a team like the Cowboys, who are in dire need of a game-changer on the defensive line.

Why the Cowboys Should Pursue T.J. Watt

With the Cowboys’ defense struggling and their defensive line lacking a true pass-rushing threat, adding T.J. Watt would instantly elevate their unit. Watt’s ability to wreak havoc in the backfield would address the Cowboys’ biggest deficiency from the previous season. His speed, power, and relentless motor would complement the rest of their defense, providing much-needed pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

If the Cowboys manage to acquire Watt, they would boast one of the most terrifying front fours in the NFL, with Watt lining up alongside Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams — a trio that would be chaotic for offensive lines to handle. The idea of Watt, Clark, and Williams attacking quarterbacks would make the Cowboys’ defensive line one of the most feared in the league.

This is exactly the type of move that could revitalize Dallas’ defense, putting them back into the conversation as one of the top units in the NFL. Watt’s presence would not only improve their pass rush but would also help in stopping the run, as Watt’s versatility allows him to impact multiple facets of the game.

The Trade Dynamics: Would the Steelers Be Willing to Move Watt?

Despite Watt’s decreased sack numbers over the last two years, his talent and potential are undeniable. The Steelers, however, may be in a position where moving Watt could be in their best interest. If they are rebuilding or shifting their focus in a new direction, a trade could give them the opportunity to acquire valuable assets, particularly in the form of draft picks.

The Cowboys, on the other hand, are firmly in win-now mode and have the resources to make a trade work. A second-round pick for Watt could be a bargain for a team in need of a true game-changer on defense, especially given Watt’s track record. The Cowboys would also benefit from Watt’s leadership and experience, which could elevate the entire defense.

In addition, Watt has familiarity with Mike McCarthy’s system from their time together in the NFC, giving the Cowboys an edge in integrating him quickly into their plans. If the trade materializes, Watt could immediately step into a starting role and make an impact, helping Dallas make a strong push for a Super Bowl in the coming years.

What Does This Mean for the Cowboys’ Super Bowl Hopes?

The Dallas Cowboys have always had the potential to be one of the league’s elite teams, but consistency has eluded them. Adding a player like T.J. Watt could give them the defensive edge they need to finally get over the hump. A defense that already features key playmakers such as Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs could be elevated to even greater heights with Watt’s ability to rush the passer and disrupt opposing offenses.

If the Cowboys can pair Watt with their already talented defensive line, they would have a fearsome pass rush capable of giving even the most elite quarterbacks trouble. The combination of Watt’s leadership and Parsons’ skill set could form one of the most dynamic duos in the NFL.

Conclusion: Could the Cowboys Land T.J. Watt?

While the possibility of a T.J. Watt trade remains speculative, the idea of the Dallas Cowboys acquiring the pass rusher makes a lot of sense. With Watt available for a relatively low cost (in terms of compensation) and the Cowboys in desperate need of an elite pass rusher, this could be a move that propels Dallas to new heights in their Super Bowl pursuit.

With Watt, Kenny Clark, and Quinnen Williams on the same front line, the Cowboys would have one of the most unstoppable defensive units in the league — something that could be the difference-maker in postseason games. If the Cowboys can make this trade happen, their defense would be set for years to come, potentially positioning them as a legitimate contender for the Super Bowl.