The NFL world buzzed when the Green Bay Packers released All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander, a move that instantly sparked speculation about his next destination. For the Dallas Cowboys, a team still piecing together their cornerback puzzle, Alexander’s availability—alongside whispers of Jalen Ramsey—presents a tantalizing opportunity. But don’t expect Dallas to jump the gun just yet. With $32.5 million in cap space and a calculated approach, the Cowboys are poised for a blockbuster move, but only when the timing is right.
The Cornerback Conundrum
Dallas’ secondary is a mix of potential and uncertainty. Trevon Diggs, the team’s star corner, is the linchpin, but his recovery from injury remains a question mark. Minicamp this week offers a chance to gauge his progress, though he’s unlikely to be ready for September. Rookie Shavon Revel Jr. has impressed with his physicality and football IQ, but his transition to NFL speed and full health is still a work in progress. The hope is he’ll be ready for the season opener, but that’s far from guaranteed.
Then there’s DaRon Bland, whose own situation adds another layer of complexity. The Cowboys aren’t just filling one spot—they’re managing a cascading set of needs at a position that’s become increasingly premium in today’s NFL. Every decision impacts the next, and Dallas is taking a measured approach until they have clarity.
The Gilmore Safety Net
Amid the uncertainty, one name looms large: Stephon Gilmore. The veteran cornerback, a free agent, has been spotted at the Cowboys’ facility this offseason, a sign of mutual respect and familiarity. Gilmore is the ultimate insurance policy—a plug-and-play option who knows the system and requires no acclimation. If Dallas needs him, they can call just before the season starts, assuming he hasn’t signed elsewhere. His presence offers peace of mind as the Cowboys navigate their options.
Ramsey vs. Alexander: The Big-Name Debate
Jalen Ramsey and Jaire Alexander represent the high-upside, high-cost solutions Dallas is reportedly considering. Ramsey, the more decorated and healthier of the two, carries a hefty $25 million cap hit. Alexander, whose market value is estimated at $12-$18 million, has been hampered by injuries, playing just 4, 16, 7, and 7 games over the past four seasons. While Alexander’s price tag is more palatable, Ramsey’s reliability and pedigree make him the safer bet—if Dallas is willing to stretch their budget.
With $32.5 million in cap space, either move would push the Cowboys close to their comfort zone. The Jones family prefers to maintain a $15 million buffer for emergencies, and dipping into single digits is a line they’re reluctant to cross. Signing Ramsey would leave little room for error, while Alexander’s lower cost offers more flexibility but comes with greater risk.
The Micah Parsons Lever
One major factor could tip the scales: Micah Parsons’ inevitable contract extension. Finalizing a deal with the superstar pass-rusher would free up an additional $15 million in cap space, giving Dallas the financial cushion to pursue a big-name corner. This move could make Ramsey’s $25 million cap hit or Alexander’s $12-$18 million deal far more manageable, allowing the Cowboys to stay above their preferred $15 million threshold.
A Waiting Game
For now, Dallas is playing the long game. They’re waiting for clarity on Diggs’ and Revel’s recoveries, as well as the development of younger corners like Caelen Carson and Kaiir Elam. Until those pieces fall into place, the Cowboys are unlikely to force a move, even with tempting names like Ramsey and Alexander in play. Spending $20 million or more on a corner only makes sense if the need becomes dire.
Cowboys fans may grow restless, but the team’s patience speaks volumes about their confidence in their current roster and their strategic approach to the market. With Gilmore as a fallback, Parsons’ extension on the horizon, and a healthy cap situation, Dallas is quietly positioning itself for a massive move. The Ramsey and Alexander links aren’t just smoke—they’re a sign the Cowboys are ready to strike when the moment is right.