Why are the Cowboys prioritizing edge rushers in free agency?
After missing out on a trade for Maxx Crosby, the Cowboys need to find a pass rusher to improve their defense.
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Cowboys Eye Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh in Free Agency | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Patriots Eye Tight End Isaiah Likely to Support Drake Maye | Riq Woolen's Free Agency Outlook: Seahawks Exit and Potential Landing Spots | Gardner Minshew Joins Arizona Cardinals in Free Agency | Tim Settle Returns to Washington Commanders on Three-Year Deal | Alontae Taylor Signs with Tennessee Titans | Bengals Sign Bryan Cook to Bolster Safety Position | Deebo Samuel Free Agency: Commanders, Dolphins, and 49ers in the Mix | Cowboys Eye Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh in Free Agency | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Patriots Eye Tight End Isaiah Likely to Support Drake Maye | Riq Woolen's Free Agency Outlook: Seahawks Exit and Potential Landing Spots | Gardner Minshew Joins Arizona Cardinals in Free Agency | Tim Settle Returns to Washington Commanders on Three-Year Deal | Alontae Taylor Signs with Tennessee Titans | Bengals Sign Bryan Cook to Bolster Safety Position | Deebo Samuel Free Agency: Commanders, Dolphins, and 49ers in the Mix
NFL / Free Agency
Cowboys Eye Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh in Free Agency
As the 2026 NFL free agency period approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are prioritizing defensive upgrades, particularly focusing on edge rushers. With the trade for Maxx Crosby falling through, the Cowboys are now eyeing free agent options to r...
Key Insights
- The Cowboys' trade for Maxx Crosby was unsuccessful, shifting their focus to free agency for edge rushers.
- Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh are key targets for the Cowboys, fitting their defensive scheme under coordinator Christian Parker.
- Mafe is noted for his athleticism and versatility in a 3-4 hybrid defense, while Oweh has demonstrated pass-rushing prowess with the Ravens and Chargers.
- Dallas is expected to be more aggressive in free agency this year, with a focus on improving their defense.
- The team needs someone who can make a difference as an outside linebacker in a 3-4, and that should have them focused on Odafe Oweh.
In-Depth Analysis
The Dallas Cowboys are in search of a pass rusher to bolster their defense for the 2026 season. After missing out on Maxx Crosby, free agency presents an opportunity to address this need. Several names have surfaced as potential targets, with Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh drawing considerable attention.
**Boye Mafe:** Mafe's experience in a 3-4 hybrid defense, similar to what Christian Parker intends to implement, makes him a strong fit. His athleticism and ability to drop into coverage add versatility to the Cowboys' defense. Mafe’s 0.84 second get-off was tied for 10th fastest among edge rushers last year, while his time to pressure of 2.76 seconds was 12th
**Odafe Oweh:** Oweh, a former first-round pick, has demonstrated his pass-rushing capabilities with the Ravens and Chargers. His potential market value is projected at $88 million over four years, reflecting his impact on the field. In 2025 Oweh had nine tackles for loss and 18 quarterback hits.
The Cowboys' pursuit of an edge rusher underscores their commitment to improving a defense that struggled in 2025. With Jerry Jones signaling a willingness to spend in free agency, the addition of Mafe or Oweh could significantly impact the team's defensive performance.
FAQ
How does Boye Mafe fit into the Cowboys' defensive scheme?
Mafe's experience in a similar 3-4 hybrid defense and his versatility make him a natural fit.
What is Odafe Oweh's potential market value?
Oweh's market value is projected to be $88 million on a 4-year contract.
Takeaways
- The Cowboys are serious about upgrading their defense through free agency.
- Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh are strong contenders to fill the edge rusher role.
- The Cowboys' defensive performance in 2026 could heavily depend on their success in acquiring a talented pass rusher.
Discussion
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