The Dallas Cowboys are heading into the NFL trade deadline with plenty of questions surrounding their roster. However, head coach Brian Schottenheimer has made his position clear.
Dallas improved to 4-5 after beating the Indianapolis Colts 27-23 in Week 9. The victory kept the Cowboys in contention in a competitive NFC East race.
When reporters asked Schottenheimer about Tuesday’s trade deadline, he expressed confidence in the current roster.
“I’m very comfortable with our team. … We just have to be more consistent,” Schottenheimer said.
His comments come as speculation continues about potential moves before the deadline. Dallas has already made notable defensive additions, including cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams.
The Cowboys could still use help along the defensive front. New York Jets edge rusher Will McDonald IV has emerged as a reported target after requesting a trade.
However, Dallas has limited draft capital after its previous moves. The Cowboys currently hold only four picks in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Stephen Jones provides update on Cowboys’ trade discussions
Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones also addressed the team’s deadline activity. He revealed that Dallas has not received calls about its players.
“We haven’t. We really have not. It’s been pretty quiet on our end,” Jones said.
He added that the Cowboys have contacted all 31 other teams to discuss available players and possible opportunities.
“I mean, we’re certainly making all the calls. We touch base with all 31 other teams and who’s available and who we might would consider if there was somebody that made any sense to us. But, right now it’s pretty quiet on our front.”
Jones explained that trade discussions can develop quickly near the deadline. Teams usually negotiate throughout the process before deciding whether to make a move.
“Usually you’re on to something that’s building and you kind of, if you will, sword fighting a little bit and just trying to see kind of where the other person is,” Jones said. “If you have an interest in a player, they have an interest in your player. And then as you get closer to the deadline, then, ‘Hey, it’s either time to move a little or move on.’
So, it’s usually by now you’re on to something that you’re kind of keeping an eye on.”
He also suggested that Dallas could return to discussions if circumstances change, saying, “You’re kind of cool, then last minute you decide to get back in it, you can.”
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George Pickens remains another name attracting attention because of his franchise tag and contract situation. However, the Cowboys reportedly prefer to keep him alongside Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
Dallas now faces a decision about whether another addition can improve its playoff chances. Schottenheimer’s message suggests he believes the current roster has enough talent.
Still, the Cowboys need greater consistency if they want to turn that confidence into results.
