The Dallas Cowboys have emerged as a potential trade destination for Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders as speculation over his future continues. Analysts believe Sanders could develop behind Dak Prescott as Dallas’ long-term backup. The former fifth-round pick started eight games for Cleveland in 2025, throwing for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. No trade appears imminent, but the Cowboys remain an intriguing landing spot if the Browns decide to move him. Trade speculation surrounding Shedeur Sanders continues to grow as the Cleveland Browns reportedly remain open to discussing offers for the former fifth-round pick. One potential landing spot now being floated is the Dallas Cowboys, where Sanders could arrive as a developmental quarterback behind Dak Prescott. While no deal is believed to be close, analysts see Dallas as a logical fit if Cleveland decides to move the 24-year-old before the 2026 season. CategoryDetailsPlayerShedeur SandersCurrent TeamCleveland BrownsRumored TeamDallas CowboysContract StatusRookie contractSalary Cap HitLow-cost rookie dealTrade LikelihoodModerateLatest Insider UpdateCowboys named as a possible landing spotPotential ReturnMid-to-late round draft pick
Which teams are interested in Shedeur Sanders?
The Cowboys have emerged as one of the latest teams connected to Sanders as questions continue to surround his future in Cleveland. Dallas already has Dak Prescott locked in as its starting quarterback, but the depth chart behind him remains a work in progress with Joe Milton III and Sam Howell competing for backup roles. That has led some league observers to wonder whether Jerry Jones could once again take a chance on a young quarterback with upside. Dallas has shown a willingness to invest in reclamation projects before, making the latest rumor less surprising than it may initially appear. Sanders would not be expected to challenge Prescott. Instead, he could spend time developing while learning within an established offensive system. His athletic ability and passing upside still make him an intriguing long-term option despite an inconsistent rookie campaign.
What insiders are saying about the trade rumors
Pro Football Network’s Cooper Kleinberg believes Dallas makes sense if Cleveland decides to move Sanders. “What type of offseason would it be if Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys weren’t linked to a polarizing, big-name player like Sanders? Three summers ago, Dallas traded a fourth-round pick for former 49ers No. 3 overall pick Trey Lance, and in the spring of 2025, it dealt a fifth-round pick for Joe Milton III,” Kleinberg wrote. He also believes Sanders could develop into the Cowboys’ long-term backup. “Jones could acquire Sanders for relatively cheap and give him the opportunity to develop behind Dak Prescott as the team’s long-term backup.” Those comments fit with Dallas’ recent history of adding young quarterbacks without immediately expecting them to compete for the starting job.
Contract details and salary cap implications
Sanders remains on his rookie contract after being selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. That gives any interested team financial flexibility, as his salary cap hit is relatively small compared to veteran quarterbacks. There are no known no-trade restrictions attached to his contract, meaning Cleveland would have the freedom to negotiate if it chooses. Because Sanders is still on an affordable rookie deal, his contract would be attractive for teams looking to improve quarterback depth without creating salary cap concerns.
How the trade could impact both teams
Adding Sanders would extend the quarterback pipeline behind Prescott and give Dallas another young passer with upside for development. The Cowboys can afford to be patient and see how he comes along for a few seasons.Trading Sanders would likely indicate faith in Cleveland’s remaining quarterbacks while adding future draft capital. More roster flexibility for the Browns as well, but everything comes down to whether they still see Sanders as part of their long-term plans as they head into the 2026 season.