In 2025, the Dallas Cowboys’ defense was a major point of concern, finishing as one of the worst units in the NFL. The team’s inability to stop opposing offenses effectively cost them in several games, leading to an unfortunate season on that side of the ball.

Much of the struggles were attributed to defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, whose tenure ended after just one season. His defensive schemes, which were expected to bring stability and strength to a Cowboys team, failed to live up to expectations, prompting the franchise to make a significant change.

To address the issues, the Cowboys hired Christian Parker as Eberflus’ replacement, a move that brings fresh hope. Parker arrives in Dallas with a strong track record, and while his hire is a step in the right direction, it’s clear that the defense needs more than just a new coordinator to become competitive.

With two first-round picks in the upcoming draft, the Cowboys are in a prime position to bolster their defensive roster. But team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has also hinted that the team will be aggressive in free agency, which has many expecting the Cowboys to finally spend significant money to improve their defense.

Aaron Schatz, a prominent NFL analyst for ESPN, believes that one player the Cowboys will target is Devin Lloyd, an All-Pro linebacker currently with the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to Schatz, Lloyd’s proven playmaking ability and versatility make him an ideal addition to a Cowboys defense desperate for impact players.

Lloyd, who is entering his fourth season in the league, had a standout year in 2025, recording five interceptions, one of which was returned for an impressive 99-yard touchdown. These eye-catching stats, combined with his ability to play well against both the run and the pass, make him an attractive target for any team in need of an elite linebacker.

“The Cowboys had one of the worst defenses in NFL history in 2025, according to my DVOA metric,” Schatz wrote. “They are in desperate need of playmakers. So why not bring in Lloyd? He is a solid starting linebacker who had five interceptions and 1.5 sacks last season.”

Lloyd, drafted by the Jaguars in the first round of the 2022 draft out of Utah, has consistently been one of the league’s most productive linebackers. He has exceeded 100 tackles in each of his first three seasons, demonstrating his ability to play at a high level on a consistent basis.

Entering free agency, Lloyd boasts impressive career numbers, including 436 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 26 pass deflections, and nine interceptions. These statistics make him a potential cornerstone for any defense, and Dallas would benefit immensely from adding him to their roster.

However, the question that arises is how much Lloyd will command on the open market. As one of the league’s most sought-after linebackers, his contract could reach a significant amount, making the decision to sign him a tough one for the Cowboys.

Lloyd’s ability to impact both the run and pass games has made him one of the top linebackers in the NFL, and according to Spotrac, he could command a lucrative deal, potentially worth three years, $60.4 million. That’s an average of $20.1 million per season, a price that could stretch the Cowboys’ salary cap, even with potential restructures.

Dallas, known for its tendency to make big moves in free agency, may find themselves in a difficult position. Signing Lloyd to such a massive contract would likely preclude them from making other major acquisitions. This means that if they pursue Lloyd, it could be their only significant free-agent move.

That said, the Cowboys’ interest in Lloyd will depend heavily on his contract demands. If his price tag drops below $20 million per year, the Cowboys may decide to make a move, as they have the cap flexibility to fit him in. However, if the asking price remains too high, it could push the Cowboys to look elsewhere, focusing their attention on a more affordable option to help improve the defense.

For now, the rumors surrounding the Cowboys’ potential interest in Lloyd serve as a reminder that the team is far from satisfied with their current defensive roster. With the hiring of Parker and a commitment to upgrading their defense, Dallas is making it clear that they are serious about turning their fortunes around on that side of the ball.

The defense has been a weak link for the Cowboys in recent seasons, and while the team has several promising pieces, the addition of a player like Devin Lloyd could be a game-changer. With his ability to impact all areas of the game, Lloyd would instantly become one of the top playmakers on the Cowboys’ defense.

The upcoming draft and free agency period will be crucial for Dallas as they aim to improve a defense that has too often held them back. While Lloyd may be the primary target, the Cowboys will also look for other ways to bolster their roster, whether through drafting young talent or adding veteran presence via free agency.

In the end, whether the Cowboys land Lloyd or not, their commitment to improving the defense is clear. With Parker’s arrival and the resources available to them, Dallas is poised to make some much-needed changes. How they proceed in free agency will ultimately determine whether they can make a leap forward in 2026 and beyond.

For now, fans are left wondering whether the Cowboys will go all-in on a star linebacker or opt for a more balanced approach in their quest to fix one of the NFL’s most struggling defenses. One thing is certain: Dallas is on the hunt for answers.