The Dallas Cowboys have been frequently mentioned as a potential destination for star receiver Davante Adams in a blockbuster trade with the Las Vegas Raiders.
However, there are mixed reports regarding how serious the Cowboys are about pursuing Adams.
If Dallas were to make a move for the six-time Pro Bowler, what would it take?
Jon Machota of The Athletic proposed a trade scenario where the Cowboys could acquire Adams for a 2025 third-round pick and wide receiver Jalen Brooks.
“The Raiders will likely receive better offers, but the Cowboys are limited in what they can offer in terms of future draft picks,” Machota wrote in his October 2, 2024, article titled
“Davante Adams trade proposals: What could the Raiders get for the future Hall of Fame WR?”
He added, “The Cowboys recently made Dak Prescott the league’s highest-paid player and CeeDee Lamb the second-highest-paid non-quarterback.
They are also planning to extend Micah Parsons, likely making him the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback.”
Machota continued, “The Cowboys have more pressing needs, like along the defensive line and at running back, but owner/GM Jerry Jones has always been drawn to wide receivers.
While he’s had success drafting talents like Dez Bryant and Lamb, Jones has also shown a willingness to make bold moves for big-name veterans.”
“He traded two first-round picks for Joey Galloway in 2000. He signed Terrell Owens in 2006.
He traded first-, third-, and sixth-round picks for Roy Williams in 2008. He also traded a first-round pick for Amari Cooper in 2018.”
The Cowboys Are Reportedly ‘Monitoring’ a Trade for Adams
One significant hurdle for a potential Adams trade is his hefty five-year, $140 million contract.
After this season, Adams still has two years left on his deal, including a $25.3 million cap hit and $16.8 million salary for 2024.
Trade speculation picked up after Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that the Cowboys were “monitoring” Adams’ situation with the Raiders.
“The Jets and Cowboys are among several teams monitoring Davante Adams’ status,” Russini shared on X (formerly Twitter) on October 2.
“Both teams have reached out to the Raiders. However, I’m told that Las Vegas isn’t rushing to move Adams unless a team meets their asking price — but Adams wants out as soon as possible.”
Conflicting Reports on Dallas’ Interest in Adams
Meanwhile, NFL Network’s Jane Slater reported that the Cowboys are not actively pursuing Adams, largely due to financial considerations.
“Head coach Mike McCarthy praised Davante Adams as a player but didn’t delve into any trade discussions,” Slater reported on October 2 via X.
“I’ve been told internally the Cowboys aren’t in the mix for Adams — they ‘don’t have the money,’ and with next year’s draft picks being more important than ever, they’re reluctant to part with them.”
The Cowboys are currently thin at wide receiver behind CeeDee Lamb, with Brandin Cooks on Injured Reserve.
Jalen Tolbert is coming off a career-best performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, with 7 catches for 87 yards and the game-winning touchdown.
Given the financial commitment required, it remains to be seen if Dallas will be aggressive enough to pursue Adams.
