The Dallas Cowboys entered the NFL free agency period with a clear objective to fix a linebacker unit that struggled mightily during the 2025 season. However, the franchise’s early plans took a hit when two of its primary targets signed for an NFL rival, a frustrating setback for owner Jerry Jones.
Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker were both believed to be high on the agenda for the Cowboys.
However, the pair signed lucrative deals with the Las Vegas Raiders instead.
While the Cowboys remain active in the market, the disappearance of two high-profile linebacker options has forced the organization to reassess its strategy.
The Cowboys had reportedly shown strong interest in Dean, a former standout from the Georgia program who developed into a productive defender with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Dean delivered a standout campaign in 2024, recording 128 tackles, three sacks and an interception while emerging as one of the team’s defensive leaders.
His aggressive downhill style and ability to attack ball carriers made him an appealing target for a Dallas defense that lacked playmakers at the position. Although injuries slowed him in 2025, Dean still flashed his impact ability.
Limited to 10 games because of hamstring issues, he posted 55 tackles and recorded a career-best four sacks. His reputation as one of the league’s most effective blitzing linebackers remained intact despite the shortened season.
The Raiders secured his services with a major contract, something the Cowboys are limited from offering.
“Nakobe Dean‘s deal with the Raiders is for $36 million with $20 million guaranteed, per source,” Dianna Russini of The Athletic wrote on X.
Raiders sweep Cowboys’ top linebacker targets
For Jones and the Cowboys, losing Dean alone would have been disappointing. But the franchise suffered another blow when Walker, another linebacker high on Dallas’ list, also chose Las Vegas.
The signing of Walker further complicated the Cowboys‘ plans.
The former Green Bay Packers linebacker agreed to a three-year contract worth $40.5 million with the Raiders, including $28 million guaranteed.
His $13.5 million annual salary places him among the highest-paid players at the position.
According to ESPN reporter Todd Archer, Walker had been a priority target for Dallas, even more so than Dean.
The team reportedly held a Zoom meeting with him during the early stages of free agency before he ultimately chose Las Vegas.
Drafted 22nd overall by the Packers in 2022, Walker has been remarkably consistent throughout his career.
He has recorded more than 100 tackles in each of his seasons and started at least 13 games every year. His speed and ability to cover ground sideline-to-sideline make him a strong run defender, while his tackling production has steadily improved.
The 2025 season proved particularly productive, as Walker accumulated 128 tackles and 2.5 sacks across 14 games. Although his pass coverage has been viewed as a weakness at times, he has made strides in that area as well.
Defensive issues remain for Cowboys
The losses of Dean and Walker highlight the urgency facing Dallas.
The team attempted to patch the position last year by signing Kenneth Murray Jr. and Jack Sanborn, but those moves provided only short-term help.
Later in the season, the Cowboys acquired Logan Wilson, though he struggled to adapt to Matt Eberflus‘ defensive system and was eventually released.
Despite missing out on two key targets, Dallas still has potential options available. Players such as Devin Lloyd, Alex Anzalone, Devin Bush Jr., and veteran Bobby Wagner could help address the team’s defensive shortcomings.
With the 2026 season approaching, Jones faces mounting pressure to find answers.
Missing out on Dean and Walker has narrowed the Cowboys‘ options, but the franchise must still find a way to rebuild a defense that struggled throughout 2025.
Cowboys fans will now wait to see whether another move is coming, or whether the team risks repeating the same defensive problems once again.
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