Heading into the current NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys found themselves facing a significant challenge in the defensive end position, which had become one of the most vulnerable areas on their roster. With the departure of experienced players like Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. to the Washington Commanders through free agency, the Cowboys managed to draft only one impactful edge rusher, Marshawn Kneeland, in the second round. This left the team with a considerable gap in their pass-rushing arsenal, raising concerns about their defensive strategy moving forward.

As the season progressed, the situation regarding the Cowboys’ edge depth worsened significantly. The team faced a critical blow when both Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence sustained injuries during a Week 4 victory against the New York Giants. Since then, neither player has been able to contribute on the field, severely limiting the Cowboys’ defensive capabilities. Compounding these issues, Kneeland, who was expected to rise to the occasion in the absence of the two veterans, unfortunately suffered a knee injury, sidelining him for a substantial portion of the regular season.

The lack of effectiveness in the pass rush has become glaringly obvious during the Cowboys’ last two games. Particularly against the Detroit Lions, the team was forced to rely heavily on their depth chart, calling upon players such as Chauncey Golston, Tyrus Wheat, K.J. Henry, and Carl Lawson to fill the void as primary edge rushers. While these players are talented, they do not instill the same level of fear in opposing offenses as the team’s usual starters, raising concerns about the overall defensive strategy and effectiveness.

With the possibility of Parsons returning soon, perhaps as early as this week, the Cowboys are in urgent need of additional support for their pass rush. As the trade deadline approaches, there is a growing sentiment that Dallas should explore external options to bolster their defensive lineup and provide a reliable partner for their All-Pro linebacker, enhancing their chances for success in the remainder of the season.

One intriguing candidate for the Cowboys to consider is Chase Young from the New Orleans Saints. According to a report from Bleacher Report, Dallas has been identified as a potential landing spot for the former second overall pick. The discussion included insights on why the Saints might be inclined to part ways with Young as the trade deadline approaches, given their current challenges.

After starting the season with a promising 2-0 record, the New Orleans Saints have seen their 2024 campaign derailed by a series of injuries to key players like Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, Derek Carr, and Taysom Hill. These setbacks have significantly hampered their ability to compete effectively, and the team is acutely aware of the uphill battle they now face.

Their recent 33-10 home defeat to the Denver Broncos was a stark reminder of their struggles, showcasing poor effort and even worse tackling. While there remains a slight chance for the Saints to recover and regain their momentum, it may be prudent for them to consider focusing on rebuilding for the upcoming seasons.

As the Saints prepare for a potential reset in 2025, they may have to do so with budget deals and rookie contracts, as they are projected to be a staggering $97.6 million over the salary cap next offseason. This financial strain could force the Saints into making tough decisions regarding their roster.

Trading Chase Young, currently on a one-year, $13 million contract, would not provide immediate cap relief for 2025; however, it could yield significant draft capital for the Saints. Young has demonstrated his abilities this season, accumulating 1.5 sacks and 13 quarterback pressures over seven games, making him an attractive asset on the trade market.

The Dallas Cowboys should also be keenly interested in Young, especially since their defensive line coach, Jeff Zgonina, previously coached him during his tenure with the Commanders in 2022 and 2023. This connection could facilitate a smoother transition for Young into the Cowboys’ defensive scheme.

Given that Young is on a one-year deal, the cost to acquire him would likely be manageable for the Cowboys, potentially involving a late-round draft pick. While he may not be the player he once was at the peak of his career, Young still represents a significant upgrade over the current options Dallas has been fielding on the edges in recent weeks.

Acquiring Chase Young could prove to be a low-risk, high-reward strategy for the Cowboys. It is crucial for the team to seriously contemplate bringing in the 25-year-old before the trade deadline, as his experience and skill set could be exactly what they need to enhance their defensive line.