EDGE RUSHER
Rashan Gary trade
Dallas Cowboys Grade B
Cowboys receive:
Edge Rashan Gary
Packers receive:
2027 4th-round pick
I can see the validity of this trade from both sides.
The Cowboys desperately needed edge-rush help, and while Gary’s play has slipped lately, he could find rejuvenation in Dallas. Meanwhile, the Packers were ready to move on and received a solid return.
Gary has generated 46.5 career sacks and can be a load on the edge, though he has not been as explosive in recent years. Heading into his eighth NFL season, Gary is also solid against the run, which gives new Cowboys coordinator Christian Parker flexibility as he retools the defense.
Barring changes to Gary’s contract, the Cowboys will take on base salaries of $18 million in 2026 and $21 million in 2027 (per Over the Cap). That’s not a low cost, but given the market for pass-rushers, it’s workable. Rather than getting into free-agent bidding wars, Dallas opted for a fixed price. The ‘Boys also didn’t agree to ship out any of their 2026 assets, saving them more ammo to use in an effort to bring about a a quick turnaround. It’s a solid first salvo for a squad that needs to upgrade every level of the defense.
Gary struggled last season, failing to generate a sack in his final 10 games (including the playoffs), and ultimately, the Packers decided to add spending flexibility. They will eat $17 million in dead money but generate $11 million in savings in 2026 and open up $31 million in cap space next year. It’s clear this move was financially motivated. Getting a fourth-round pick for a player they were done with, even if they have to wait a year to make the selection, is a stellar chess play from Brian Gutekunst.