The Dallas Cowboys are a tale of two units in 2025. On one side, their offense is firing on all cylinders under first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Dak Prescott is playing at an MVP level, carving up defenses with precision, while Javonte Williams has revitalized the running game, bulldozing his way to consistent gains. The Cowboys’ attack is a well-oiled machine, capable of going toe-to-toe with any team in the NFL. But on the other side, the defense is a glaring weak link, dragging down what could be a championship-caliber squad. New defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus has struggled to find his footing, and while he shoulders much of the blame, some of his players have been equally culpable—none more so than linebacker Jack Sanborn.
Sanborn, a former Chicago Bear under Eberflus, was supposed to be a savvy, budget-friendly addition to the Cowboys’ linebacker corps. Instead, he’s been a liability. His 56.3 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade ranks him a dismal 95th out of 137 linebackers, with glaring deficiencies against both the run and in pass coverage. His struggles have been so pronounced that he’s become the poster child for Dallas’ defensive woes. With no immediate turnaround in sight, the Cowboys are at a crossroads: stick with a sinking ship or make a bold move to salvage their season. Fortunately, the perfect solution may have just presented itself, thanks to a Cleveland Browns team in full-blown fire-sale mode.
A Golden Opportunity: Devin Bush Is Available
The Cleveland Browns, sitting at a dismal 1-4, have kicked off a roster purge that’s sending shockwaves through the NFL. In just one week, they’ve traded away cornerback Greg Newsome and quarterback Joe Flacco, signaling that general manager Andrew Berry is open for business. With the trade deadline looming, the Cowboys have a golden opportunity to capitalize on Cleveland’s willingness to deal and snag a player who could transform their defense: linebacker Devin Bush.
At 27, Bush is proving he’s far from washed up. Playing in Jim Schwartz’s defensive scheme, he’s been a revelation this season, racking up 36 tackles, a forced fumble, and a sack through just five games. His 84.0 PFF grade ranks him eighth among all linebackers, showcasing his ability to make plays in all facets of the game. Whether it’s stuffing the run, rushing the passer, or dropping into coverage, Bush has been a versatile force. He’s even logged snaps on the outside and in the slot, demonstrating the kind of flexibility that could stabilize Dallas’ shaky linebacker unit.
Compare that to Sanborn, whose struggles in the box have left the Cowboys’ defense exposed. Bush’s ability to play multiple roles would not only address Sanborn’s deficiencies but also add a dynamic playmaker to a unit desperate for a spark. With Bush on a one-year, $3.125 million deal, the Cowboys could absorb his contract without breaking a sweat, making this a low-risk, high-reward move.
Why the Trade Makes Sense for Both Sides
For the Browns, trading Bush aligns perfectly with their current trajectory. At 1-4, Cleveland is eyeing a rebuild, and with Bush set to hit free agency next offseason, cashing in now for draft capital makes sense. A deal involving Bush and a late-round pick for a fifth-round selection would be a win-win. The Cowboys get an immediate upgrade at linebacker, while the Browns add assets to fuel their rebuild.
For Dallas, the need for change is undeniable. Sanborn’s poor play has made him a candidate to be benched, and the Cowboys’ other linebacker options haven’t inspired confidence. Youngsters Marist Liufau and Shemar James haven’t earned the trust of the coaching staff, and former first-rounder Kenneth Murray has been a disappointment since entering the league. Sticking with the status quo risks squandering an offense that’s good enough to make a deep playoff run.
Time for Jerry Jones to Act
The Cowboys’ offense is a juggernaut, but their defense is holding them back from true contention. With the Browns in sell-off mode, Jerry Jones has a rare chance to strike while the iron is hot. Devin Bush isn’t just a replacement for Jack Sanborn—he’s an upgrade who could redefine Dallas’ defense. His tackling prowess, versatility, and proven production make him the ideal target to shore up a unit that’s been bleeding points.
Jones needs to pick up the phone and call Andrew Berry before another team swoops in. The Cowboys’ Super Bowl aspirations hang in the balance, and a move for Bush could be the catalyst that turns a disappointing season into a memorable one. The clock is ticking—don’t let this opportunity slip away in Arlington.