How Aidan Hutchinson’s new contract could change the Cowboys’ trade deadline plans
The Dallas Cowboys still haven’t made a trade as the NFL deadline approaches, but they were given a beautiful opportunity after the Hutchinson trade.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones continues to be as vague as possible about a potential trade move ahead of the NFL’s November 4 trade deadline, but many do expect them to be buyers as their defense is in desperate need of some help. And they may have just caught a break.
Jerry Jones’ perfect trade chance just opened up after Hutchinson’s $180M deal
With the Detroit Lions locking up Aidan Hutchinson on a record-setting $180 million extension, they’re likely out of the market for Cincinnati Bengals star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, a player previously linked to both teams.
The Cowboys and 49ers are among teams interested in Trey Hendrickson.
— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) October 29, 2025
The Bengals have no plans to move him at this point, per @JFowlerESPN pic.twitter.com/7hRwMGzwvY
That opens the door for Dallas to pursue Hendrickson, who ranks among the league’s top sack leaders since 2021 and could instantly bolster a struggling Cowboys defense. Hendrickson led the NFL in sacks last season, and is in the final year of his contract after the Bengals reworked his deal before the season.
That short-term status makes him a cheaper trade target than Raiders star Maxx Crosby, another player reportedly on Dallas’ radar. Crosby, however, is under team control through 2029, which would make acquiring him far more expensive but better for the team’s long-term outlook. At 30, Hendrickson might still cost a second-round pick, but his production and leadership could help the team make a playoff push while quarterback Dak Prescott plays at a career-best level.
If Jerry Jones is serious about maximizing the Cowboys’ current window, this could be his opportunity to make a win-now move before the deadline on Tuesday.
However, Cincinnati has resisted trade offers and maintains it has no plans to move the veteran pass rusher, despite interest from the Coboys as well as the San Francisco 49ers, who ended up adding another pass rusher this week. With the Dallas’ playoff hopes fading after their recent loss to the Denver Broncos, some analysts question whether giving up assets for a short-term rental would be wise.
At this point, the Cowboys should just roll with Matt Eberflus and not add assets to an already sinking ship.@Mr4thAndLong | #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/5TJA0xaejK
— DLLS Cowboys (@DLLS_Cowboys) October 27, 2025
The Cowboys’ next game, a Week 9 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, could heavily influence whether they buy or sell before the November 4 trade deadline.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment