Dallas Cowboys: A possible trade package to move back in the first round

With the NFL Draft just about a week away, the Dallas Cowboys are likely putting the final touches on their own draft board. They currently own the 10th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

However, things could get interesting on draft night. The Cowboys can move up in the draft and select one of the best non-quarterbacks in tight end Kyle Pitts. The Atlanta Falcons have been listening to offers for the fourth pick, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. As a result, this could be a strong possibility for Dallas as they are “infatuated” with the former Florida star.

Nonetheless, a more likely option for the Cowboys would be to trade back. By doing this, Dallas would be able to acquire more draft capital and still possibly get one of the best players in this year’s draft class.

What team would the Dallas Cowboys trade with?

Many teams could benefit from Dallas’ 10th overall pick, especially teams that need quarterback help. Since this draft arguably features some of the best quarterbacks, many teams have been in contact with the Cowboys about their pick, per The Athletic’s Jon Machota.

Teams like the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Washington Football Team all likely need quarterbacks. However, It’s safe to assume that each of their draft picks will probably not be high enough to even select one of the top five quarterbacks in this draft class. The Patriots own the 15th pick, Washington owns the 19th pick and the Bears own the 20th pick.

As a result, these teams should try to trade up and get their franchise quarterback. More importantly, one team that will likely make a hard push for Dallas’ pick is the Chicago Bears.

How much would the Dallas Cowboys gain in this trade?

The Dallas Cowboys would trade back 10 picks and now own the 20th overall pick. However, the Bears would need to give up a whole lot more to jump up 10 spots in the first round. The hypothetical full trade details can be seen below.

With the Cowboys moving back 10 picks, they would likely get two more picks including a first-round pick in 2023. The Bears would probably only make this move if quarterbacks Mac Jones, Trey Lance, or Justin Fields are available.

With that said, both sides would benefit from this trade. The Bears would get their franchise quarterback and the Cowboys should still be able to select a top cornerback in this year’s draft. Many mocks drafts including one by bleedinggreennation.com have cornerback Caleb Farley still on the board at 20. 

There is also the possibility that Dallas trades back to select a completely different position, an offensive lineman. There’s a rumor that the Cowboys would not pass on tackle Penei Sewell if he fell to them at 10, according to Pro Football Network Chief Draft Analyst and NFL Insider Tony Pauline. With this in mind, the Cowboys could choose to trade back and give Prescott more protection in the pocket.

If they were able to trade back, a few offensive linemen that Dallas could select are Christian Darrisaw, Teven Jenkins, and Jalen Mayfield. It’s going to be interesting to see what the Cowboys do with their pick. Nonetheless, if Dallas were to trade back, they would benefit from the additional draft capital.