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Cowboys Eye Trade for No. 2 Draft Pick

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. 04/06/cowboys-eye-trade-for-no-2-draft-pick.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, April 6th 2026 at 10:32 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Frisco, TX - April 6th, 2026 - The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly intensifying discussions with the New York Jets regarding a potential trade for the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. While speculation has swirled for weeks, sources indicate the Cowboys are seriously evaluating the feasibility and cost of moving up to secure a franchise quarterback, a move that could reshape the organization for the next decade.

The Dak Prescott Factor & The Quarterback Landscape

The driving force behind Dallas's interest is the looming question mark surrounding Dak Prescott's long-term future. Prescott's current contract is nearing its expiration, and while negotiations haven't been entirely ruled out, the Cowboys are increasingly aware of the need to explore contingency plans. The 2026 draft class is headlined by two exceptional quarterback prospects: Caleb Williams, who continues to garner significant buzz, and Drake Maye, a rising star with immense potential. Both are projected to be generational talents, and the Cowboys recognize the imperative of securing one of them if they hope to remain consistent Super Bowl contenders.

The current quarterback market doesn't offer appealing alternatives. Veteran quarterbacks are either already entrenched with other teams, or carry significant injury concerns or declining performance levels. The free agency route is seen as a short-term fix at best. This has focused the Cowboys' attention squarely on the draft, and specifically, on securing a top-two pick to guarantee access to either Williams or Maye. The No. 3 pick may present a talented quarterback, but risks them being selected before Dallas has the opportunity.

Decoding the Potential Trade Packages

Trading up to No. 2 will demand a hefty price. The Jets, under new ownership and rebuilding, are in a strong position to dictate terms. Several potential trade packages are being discussed, each with its own advantages and drawbacks for both sides:

• The "King's Ransom" Package: This involves the Cowboys sending their No. 10 overall pick, their 2026 first-round pick, their 2027 first-round pick, and a 2026 third-round pick to the Jets. This is considered the baseline offer, a substantial return for the Jets that provides them with a wealth of draft capital to accelerate their rebuild.
• The "Star Power" Package: This bolder proposal includes the No. 10 pick, the 2026 first-round pick, and a star player like Micah Parsons or CeeDee Lamb. While the Jets would undoubtedly be intrigued by acquiring a proven Pro Bowler, the Cowboys are understandably hesitant to part with such key contributors. However, the appeal of instantly bolstering their defense or receiving corps could prove tempting for the Jets, especially if they are further along in their rebuild than anticipated.
• The "Draft Capital Bonanza": This package - the No. 10 pick, 2026 first-round pick, 2027 first-round pick, and a 2026 second-round pick - represents a strong compromise, offering the Jets significant draft flexibility without requiring the Cowboys to sacrifice a cornerstone player.

The Price of Ambition: What the Cowboys Risk

The financial cost isn't the only consideration. Trading for the No. 2 pick would severely deplete the Cowboys' draft capital for years to come. They'd be sacrificing immediate flexibility to address a long-term need. This means foregoing the opportunity to bolster other positions of weakness through the draft, forcing them to rely heavily on later-round picks, undrafted free agents, and potentially more aggressive moves in free agency to fill out their roster.

The Cowboys would also be betting heavily on the quarterback they select. If the player doesn't live up to expectations, the trade will be viewed as a catastrophic failure, leaving the team with limited resources and a significant hole at the most important position in football.

Beyond the Quarterback: The Ripple Effect

Acquiring a new quarterback would also necessitate adjustments to the Cowboys' offensive scheme and coaching staff. The coaching team would need to tailor their system to the new player's strengths and weaknesses. It could also impact the roles and responsibilities of existing offensive players. The Cowboys' offensive line, already a strength, will need to continue to perform at a high level to protect their investment.

The Verdict: Will the Deal Go Down?

As of today, April 6th, 2026, the situation remains fluid. The Cowboys are meticulously weighing the risks and rewards, conducting thorough evaluations of both Williams and Maye, and exploring every possible trade scenario. The Jets, meanwhile, are playing their cards close to the vest, hoping to maximize their return. While the price is undoubtedly steep, the Cowboys' desperation to secure a franchise quarterback and their confidence in the 2026 draft class suggest that a deal is far from impossible. Expect the negotiations to intensify as the draft approaches, with a resolution likely coming in the days leading up to the event. The NFL world will be watching closely to see if the Cowboys are willing to pay the ultimate price for their future at quarterback.