As the Dallas Cowboys approach the final stages of the 2025 NFL preseason, the team is poised to make a seismic move that could send shockwaves through the NFC. With their last preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens in the books and roster cuts looming, the Cowboys are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade involving fourth-year wide receiver Jalen Tolbert, a move that could redefine their roster and reshape the NFC landscape.
Jalen Tolbert, a third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance during his tenure with the Cowboys. In 2024, Tolbert enjoyed a breakout season, recording career highs with 49 receptions, 610 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns while starting 15 of 17 games. His ability to step up in the absence of stars like CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks solidified his role as a reliable target for quarterback Dak Prescott. However, the Cowboys’ recent acquisition of George Pickens and the emergence of other wideouts have sparked intense competition within the receiver room, putting Tolbert’s future in Dallas in question.
Currently listed as the WR3 on the Cowboys’ unofficial preseason depth chart, Tolbert faces stiff competition from speedster KaVontae Turpin, who is expected to take on a larger offensive role in 2025, and undrafted free agent Traeshon Holden, who has turned heads with standout performances in training camp and preseason games. Additionally, Jonathan Mingo, acquired via trade last season, is likely to start the season on injured reserve (IR), potentially opening a roster spot but further complicating the depth chart. With such a crowded and talented group, Tolbert’s playing time could diminish, making him an intriguing trade candidate.
The Cowboys’ wide receiver depth is a luxury, but their roster isn’t without weaknesses. The interior defensive line, in particular, has been identified as an area needing reinforcement. With the team aiming to compete in a highly competitive NFC, bolstering the defensive front could be the key to keeping pace with powerhouses like the Philadelphia Eagles, who are set to kick off the season with a Super Bowl celebration.
Trading Tolbert, who is in the final year of his four-year, $5.1 million rookie contract, could net the Cowboys valuable assets to address these needs. A player-for-player swap or draft capital could allow Dallas to acquire a veteran defensive tackle or other defensive talent to complement stars like Micah Parsons. According to reports, head coach Brian Schottenheimer has praised the potential of younger receivers like Holden, suggesting the team feels confident in their depth to absorb the loss of Tolbert. KaVontae Turpin’s versatility and Jalen Brooks’ steady improvement further support the case for moving Tolbert, who could fetch a significant return given his proven production and youth.
Trade rumors surrounding Tolbert have gained traction in recent weeks, with analysts pointing to his value as a young, cost-controlled receiver with starting experience. Teams in need of a pass-catcher could view Tolbert as a WR2 or WR3 with upside, especially as he enters the final year of his rookie deal. The Cowboys could target a defensive lineman from a receiver-needy team, potentially striking a deal that addresses their roster gaps while giving Tolbert a fresh start elsewhere.
For example, a trade with a team like the Carolina Panthers, who have struggled defensively but boast players like A’Shawn Robinson, could make sense. Alternatively, Dallas might pursue draft picks to provide flexibility in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport noted that Tolbert’s expendability stems from the Cowboys’ depth and the arrival of Pickens, making him “an intriguing option for teams in need of a pass catcher.” Such a move could allow Dallas to maximize their roster’s potential while giving Tolbert a chance to shine in a larger role.
A Tolbert trade could have far-reaching implications for the NFC. If the Cowboys acquire a key defensive piece, they could solidify their status as contenders, challenging teams like the Eagles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and San Francisco 49ers. Meanwhile, Tolbert’s addition to another NFC roster could elevate a rival’s passing game, creating a ripple effect across the conference. For instance, a team like the Washington Commanders or Atlanta Falcons, both looking to bolster their receiving corps, could become more dangerous with Tolbert in the fold.
The Cowboys’ front office, led by Jerry and Stephen Jones, has a history of bold moves, and trading Tolbert could be the latest in a series of strategic decisions. The acquisition of Pickens already signaled their intent to shake up the offense, and moving Tolbert for defensive help would underscore their commitment to building a balanced, championship-caliber team.
As the Cowboys prepare for their season opener against the Eagles, the next few days will be critical. Roster cuts are due soon, and the team must decide whether to keep Tolbert as a valuable depth piece or leverage his trade value to address pressing needs. Tolbert’s performance in the final preseason game could sway the decision, but the buzz around a potential trade suggests the Cowboys are open to all options.
For Tolbert, a trade could offer a chance to secure a more prominent role elsewhere, capitalizing on his breakout 2024 season. For Dallas, it’s an opportunity to fine-tune a roster with Super Bowl aspirations. As the NFL world watches, the Cowboys’ next move could reshape the NFC and set the stage for an explosive 2025 season.