Jerry Jones has publicly downplayed the buzz surrounding Maxx Crosby, stating that the Dallas Cowboys never contacted the Las Vegas Raiders about their All-Pro edge rusher. While the Cowboys remain “open for business” ahead of the November 4 trade deadline, Jones hinted that any ideal addition to the team would be a defensive player “but not a pass rusher,” according to the New York Times. This comment appeared to shut the door on Crosby trade talks, while signaling a potential focus on other defensive areas.
However, reports tell a different story. Jay Glazer revealed that the Cowboys did, in fact, make trade inquiries to the Raiders about Maxx Crosby, as well as to the Cincinnati Bengals regarding Trey Hendrickson. Both teams reportedly rebuffed Dallas’ advances. Additionally, reporter Ari Meirov relayed Glazer’s information on X (formerly Twitter), noting that Dallas is actively searching for defensive help.
These reports paint a much more aggressive picture of the Cowboys’ approach than Jerry Jones’ public comments suggest. It aligns with how playoff contenders usually operate around this time of year—calling multiple teams and seeing which ones blink first.
Looking at the situation objectively, the disconnect between the messaging and reported reality seems to be more about communication strategy than a mystery. Publicly, Dallas has little incentive to broadcast unsuccessful trade attempts, especially when it involves cornerstone players like Crosby or Hendrickson. Privately, it makes perfect sense for the Cowboys to cast a wide net as they continue to seek a difference-maker on defense.
If Jones is truly not targeting pass rushers, it could indicate the Cowboys are focusing on bolstering their back-seven or making interior defensive upgrades, areas where acquisition costs might be more manageable.
On the other hand, there is a hard reality on the other end of these conversations. Recent league reports emphasize that Las Vegas has met with Crosby and made it clear he is not being shopped and will not be traded. Similarly, Cincinnati reportedly has no plans to move Hendrickson. This stance firmly blocks Dallas from acquiring the splashiest defensive options, regardless of how aggressive they are in the market.
While the Cowboys may have the draft capital to make impactful moves, leverage remains firmly with the teams unwilling to part with their franchise cornerstone players. Both perspectives can be true—if the conversations were exploratory or conducted through intermediaries.
Practically speaking, the takeaway is clear: the Dallas Cowboys are actively hunting for defensive upgrades. However, organizations holding elite edge rushers such as Crosby and Hendrickson are standing firm and aren’t budging at the trade deadline.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/dallas-cowboys/cowboys-rumors-jay-glazer-crosby-trade-report-suggests-jerry-jones-lying
