Both teams were horrible defensively in 2025. Dallas traded its best player, running back Micah Parsons, before the season. In exchange, he received multiple first-round picks and veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark. Later in the season, the Cowboys acquired Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets.
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The Cowboys still had problems. And, according to owner and general manager Jerry Jones, Dallas plans to spend more than usual in free agency this offseason. A defensive target has emerged for the Cowboys under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker: Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean.
NFL Network’s Mike Garofolo believes Dean will leave Philadelphia.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler believes the Cowboys are a team Dean should pay attention to, in part because of his connection with Parker, who spent the last two seasons with the Eagles.
The Cowboys are putting together a detailed free agency plan to bolster their defense. The new plan led by coordinator Christian Parker needs replacement. Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean is someone to watch as a green dot player in the middle of the defense. The Cowboys will also monitor the top of the free agent options to rush the passer. It’s not guaranteed they’ll spend a lot, but I think they’ll get a pass rusher at some point.
The Commanders also need linebacker help. Could this turn into a battle between Washington and Dallas for the 25-year-old former Georgia Bulldog? Bobby Wagner is a free agent for the Commanders. With Washington’s desire to get younger and faster, moving on from the future Hall of Famer seems likely. Fowler also mentioned that the Commanders were on the linebacker roster when free agency opens next week.
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Dean has battled injuries throughout his four-year career. In the last two seasons, he has missed nine games. In four seasons, Dean has missed 21 of a possible 68 games. When he’s on the field, he’s been a productive part of one of the NFL’s best defenses.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Could they be competing with the Cowboys for an Eagle?