The Dallas Cowboys received a significant boost on Wednesday with the announcement that the franchise has opened the 21-day practice window for inside linebacker DeMarvion Overshown, center Cooper Beebe, and rookie corner Shavon Revel to be promoted to the active roster. While Overshown’s return over the next few weeks is a positive development, the Cowboys’ off-the-ball linebacker position remains a glaring weak spot that needs addressing to bolster their defense.
The team’s linebacker corps has struggled to find consistency this season. Third-round pick Marist Liufau has failed to make significant strides in his second year as a professional. Meanwhile, offseason acquisitions Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray have underperformed, with Sanborn even losing his starting role ahead of Week 8 to fifth-round rookie Shemar James. With these struggles, the Cowboys are in dire need of a game-changer at the linebacker position.
A Blockbuster Trade on the Horizon?
ESPN’s Matt Bowen and Jeremy Fowler have pegged the Cowboys as a prime candidate to make a bold move for Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson. Wilson, a proven veteran who signed a four-year, $36 million extension with the Bengals in the 2023 offseason, could be the superstar addition Dallas needs to solidify its defense.
Wilson has been a reliable and impactful player during his five-plus seasons with Cincinnati, averaging seven tackles per game and showcasing his versatility with 11 interceptions and 11 pass breakups over his career. However, the Bengals’ recent financial commitments to star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have put Wilson’s future with the team in question. Cincinnati has shifted toward a younger linebacker group, with rookie Barrett Carter taking precedence, relegating Wilson to a reserve role despite his status as a team captain.
“Teams I’ve talked to believe Cincinnati is open to dealing Wilson, whose base salary is $5.4 million this season,” Fowler reported. “Next year, Wilson has a base of $6 million.” This relatively manageable salary makes Wilson an attractive trade target for a team like the Cowboys, who are looking to make a splash without breaking the bank.
Why Logan Wilson Fits the Cowboys’ Needs
According to Bowen, Wilson remains a starter-caliber player who could immediately elevate Dallas’ defense. “Wilson is a three-down defender with the coverage instincts and range to impact the pass defense,” Bowen noted. His ability to play all three downs, combined with his instincts in coverage and tackling prowess, makes him a perfect fit for a Cowboys defense that has struggled to contain opposing offenses.
Wilson’s addition could provide the Cowboys with a reliable anchor in the middle of their defense, addressing a critical weakness and complementing the eventual return of Overshown. His experience and playmaking ability would be an upgrade over the current linebacker group, offering both immediate impact and long-term stability.
The Cost of a Superstar
While Wilson’s $36 million contract extension may seem steep, his base salaries of $5.4 million this season and $6 million next year make the trade financially feasible for Dallas. Acquiring a player of Wilson’s caliber could be a game-changer for a Cowboys team looking to compete in the NFC. With the Bengals reportedly open to moving him, Dallas has a golden opportunity to land a superstar linebacker who can transform their defense.
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Cowboys’ front office to see if they pull the trigger on this blockbuster deal. If successful, Logan Wilson could be the missing piece to propel Dallas back into contention, making the $36 million price tag well worth the investment.