Speculation about the Dallas Cowboys pushing to trade for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen burned hot during the first week of free agency. With Queen still a Steeler, those rumors have now simply burned out. According to Cowboys’ beat writer Nick Harris, the Cowboys have moved on in their pursuit.

Friday, Harris tweeted Dallas “pivoted off” Queen and are pursuing other linebacker trade possibilities.  

They’ve pivoted off Queen. Al-Shaair & Brooks are being discussed though

— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) March 20, 2026

Harris was among the original group linking Dallas to Queen as the Cowboys searched high and low for off-ball linebacker help after top free agents signed elsewhere.

While Dallas’ interest may have cooled, Pittsburgh recently lost incentive to deal Queen. Over the weekend, Queen’s $2.5 million roster bonus came due and was paid, a sure sign the Steelers weren’t going to pay him and then trade him.

It seems Queen will stay in Pittsburgh for the 2026 season. What happens after that is less certain. Entering the final year of his contract, Queen could aim for an extension to keep him with the Steelers. Given his inconsistent play and new coaching staff, Pittsburgh would be better off letting the season play out. Especially after multiple linebackers received big paydays during free agency, heating up the market and increasing Queen’s price tag – or at least, his ask.

New defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will need to bring his front seven and linebacker focus to improve the group. To even out Queen’s game and make him more consistent. Payton Wilson needs a breakout season with improved run defense and the ability to play in more than just nickel packages.

Pittsburgh could also draft the position to protect themselves in the event Queen doesn’t return in 2027 and/or Wilson’s issues continue. Friday, the team hosted Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez for a pre-draft visit while draft insiders believe Georgia’s CJ Allen could be a sleeper pick at No. 21 overall.

No matter the direction Pittsburgh takes, Queen’s spot on the 2026 roster seems secure. And Dallas seems to be looking elsewhere for an upgrade.