🚨 COWBOYS TARGET CODY BARTON: Could the Titans Linebacker Be the Missing Piece?👇

As the Dallas Cowboys continue their offseason overhaul, finding a solution at middle linebacker remains a top priority. The team’s recent scheme change, transitioning to a 3-4 base defense, has already seen the departure of defensive lineman Osa Odighizuwa, and the Cowboys are now looking to make moves to shore up their linebacker corps. One name that has emerged as a potential trade target is Cody Barton, the veteran linebacker from the Tennessee Titans.

A Changing Landscape in Tennessee

The Tennessee Titans, under new coach Robert Saleh, are undergoing their own defensive transition. Saleh, a former defensive coordinator who had a somewhat tumultuous stint as head coach of the New York Jets, is bringing a new system to Nashville. As the Titans implement their changes, some players could become expendable, and Cody Barton, who has struggled to find consistency in his previous stints, could be one of them.

Barton, who has bounced around the league over the past few years, has been with the Titans for one season, following stints with Seattle and other teams. Barton’s role in Saleh’s system is uncertain, and this uncertainty might make him an ideal target for the Cowboys, who have been looking to bolster their linebacker corps.

Cowboys’ Long-Standing Linebacker Need

Ben Arthur of Fox Sports notes that the Cowboys’ need for a middle linebacker (MIKE) has been apparent since 2023. The team has prioritized adding veteran talent to its defense, bringing in players like Rashan Gary (edge rusher) and Jalen Thompson (safety) this offseason. But with a still glaring void at linebacker, the Cowboys could see Barton as the ideal candidate to step in and provide immediate help.

Arthur highlights that Barton would be an experienced starter who is comfortable with green dot responsibilities — the role of calling defensive signals and helping to organize the unit, a task that’s critical for the Cowboys’ defense as they continue to adapt to their new coordinator, Christian Parker.

A Mixed Track Record for Barton

While Barton does have the experience the Cowboys need, it’s important to note that his performance hasn’t exactly turned heads. Pro Football Focus gave Barton a 52.5 grade last season, ranking him 68th out of 88 linebackers at his position. Despite this, Barton’s resume still includes multiple years of starting experience, making him a viable option for teams like the Cowboys who need an upgrade at linebacker without breaking the bank for a top-tier player.

Cody Barton is entering his fourth team in as many years, which raises questions about his stability and ability to contribute consistently. He signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the Titans last offseason, but his time in Tennessee could be short-lived, especially if the team is rebuilding under Saleh’s system. Barton is a classic example of a veteran who could be on the move again, potentially becoming a cost-effective trade option for Dallas.

The Cowboys’ Recent Failures at Linebacker

The Cowboys’ recent struggles at linebacker have been well-documented, with several high-profile signings that ultimately didn’t pan out. Eric Kendricks, Kenneth Murray, and Logan Wilson are just a few names that didn’t live up to expectations, leaving the Cowboys in a continual search for reliable playmakers at the position.

While Barton may not be a game-changer like some of the other names the Cowboys have targeted, he would bring veteran leadership and a steady presence to a unit that has struggled to find consistency. He is, after all, still a starter in the league and could bring some much-needed depth to the Cowboys’ linebacking corps.

Barton’s Potential Trade Value

Barton’s three-year contract is manageable for the Cowboys, and he could be acquired for a relatively low price. Considering the Cowboys have three fifth-round picks in the upcoming draft, two of those picks might be enough to land Barton, making him a low-risk, high-reward addition to their defense.

Moreover, while other linebackers like Patrick Queen of the Steelers, Jordyn Brooks of the Dolphins, and Azeez Al-Shaair of the Texans have been mentioned as potential trade targets, Barton represents a more affordable option for the Cowboys. Those other players would likely command premium pick packages, but Barton could be available for much less, allowing the Cowboys to continue building their roster without sacrificing too much capital.

Long-Term Plans at Linebacker

While Barton could be a solid short-term fix for the Cowboys, it’s important to note that the team still plans to address the linebacker position in the draft. The addition of Barton would be an immediate solution, but the Cowboys likely view him as a bridge to a future linebacker who can be a more permanent fixture in the defense.

The hope is that Barton’s leadership and experience can help stabilize the position in the short term, while the team develops a younger linebacker who can eventually take over the reins and become a long-term solution for the Cowboys’ defense.

Conclusion: A Smart, Low-Cost Addition?

As the Cowboys continue to search for ways to improve their defense, Cody Barton could be a smart, low-cost addition to their linebacking corps. While he may not be the flashiest option, Barton provides veteran experience, solid tackling ability, and leadership at a position that has been a weak point for Dallas in recent seasons.

With the Cowboys focusing on both the immediate future and long-term success, Barton could fill an important role as they continue to transition under defensive coordinator Christian Parker. A trade for Barton could be just the right move to help the C