For the first time in what feels like years, the Dallas Cowboys weren't silent on the first day of the legal tampering period. They swung a big trade for edge rusher Rashan Gary and agreed on a multi-year deal with safety Jalen Thompson.
But Jerry Jones still found a way to leave the fanbase wanting more. Former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean had been named as an ideal signing for the Cowboys Dallas has a major need at the position, and he could solidify the center of the defense for years to come.
Instead, the Las Vegas Raiders agreed to terms with the linebacker on a three-year, $36 million deal, per insider Mike Garafolo. It's a bargain for Vegas and a brutal blow for Cowboys fans.
The Dallas Cowboys miss out on Nakobe Dean as linebacker signs with Raiders
The fit made perfect sense. Dean is a physical, downhill linebacker who thrives when blitzing. He helped hold down the middle of the Eagles' defense for years, so he's familiar with the NFC East. Next to DeMarvion Overshown, he could have been a key piece of defensive coordinator Christian Parker's unit.
The linebacker's 2025 season was limited due to injury, but he showed in 2024 that his skill set can be instrumental to building a top defense. His seven sacks over the last two seasons show that his impact goes beyond off-ball play.
Instead, the Raiders stole him away in a flurry of signings. To make matters worse, the contract would have been well within the Cowboys' budget.
At just $12 million per year, Dean signed with the Raiders at a relatively low price. The contract would put him right around the top ten at his position in terms of average annual value. He's getting paid the same amount as Tremaine Edmunds, whom the Chicago Bears were more than willing to let go.
Now, the Cowboys will have to look to other options to fill the position. Linebackers like Edmunds, Quay Walker, and Devin Bush have already signed elsewhere. There are limited choices still on the market, but Dallas could still make some quality signings if Jones is willing to pay up.
Whether it's a big name like Devin Lloyd or a cheaper option, the Cowboys need to bring someone in to fill the linebacker spot next to Overshown quickly. Otherwise, they'll risk losing yet another season due to an ineffective defense.