As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for rookie minicamp, the roster still has some notable gaps to address. While the linebacker corps has finally added some bodies this offseason, there's lingering uncertainty about whether this group is ready to compete at a high level. Beyond that, depth concerns at wide receiver and running back remain—especially given the small sample sizes from players behind starter Javonte Williams. Ryan Flournoy shows promise as the third receiver behind stars CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, but the rest of the depth chart hasn't proven consistent production.
With NFL teams finalizing their rosters post-draft, some veterans may become available via trade or release. This creates a prime opportunity for Dallas to scoop up talent at a discount. Why? Because incoming rookies are pushing players off rosters, and lingering frustration with injuries or underperformance could make former standouts more affordable. The Cowboys have successfully capitalized on these situations before—most recently when they acquired Pickens from the Steelers. Here are four players who could be on the roster bubble and have previously drawn interest from Dallas.
Jordyn Brooks, Linebacker, Miami Dolphins
The Brooks-to-Dallas connection has been a recurring storyline, yet the Cowboys have never pulled the trigger on a trade for the 2025 First-team All-Pro. However, after the Dolphins drafted linebackers Jacob Rodriguez (second round) and Kyle Louis (fourth round), Miami might be more motivated to move Brooks. Both rookies share a similar play style and come at a fraction of the cost. Adding Brooks would give Dallas a top-tier middle linebacker capable of wearing the green dot and anchoring a young linebacker group.
Nick Bolton, Linebacker, Kansas City Chiefs
Bolton has long been a name linked to the Cowboys, especially given his Kansas City ties and Dallas's need for a physical presence in the middle. With the Chiefs adding depth at linebacker in the draft, Bolton could become expendable. He brings playoff experience and a relentless motor—qualities that would instantly upgrade the Cowboys' defensive core.
Khalil Herbert, Running Back, Chicago Bears
Herbert has flashed explosive potential in Chicago but has been overshadowed by the Bears' evolving backfield. With the arrival of rookie Roschon Johnson and D'Onta Foreman's return, Herbert could be the odd man out. Dallas has shown interest in him before, and his speed and vision would complement Javonte Williams nicely, giving the Cowboys a dynamic one-two punch.
Darnell Mooney, Wide Receiver, Chicago Bears
Mooney's name has been in trade rumors for a while, and with the Bears adding DJ Moore and Tyler Scott to an already crowded receiver room, his departure feels inevitable. Mooney has deep-threat ability and would provide reliable depth behind Lamb and Pickens. The Cowboys have scouted him in the past, and a fresh start in Dallas could reignite his production.
For a team looking to solidify its roster before training camp, these four players offer intriguing value—and the Cowboys have the history and need to make a move.
