Dallas Cowboys Could Mimic Rams' Strategy in Potential Trade for Ravens Cornerback
According to analysis from Cowboys Wire's K.D. Drummond, the Dallas Cowboys might consider adopting a bold strategy similar to that of the Los Angeles Rams by trading away their limited draft capital to acquire veteran talent. Specifically, Drummond suggests the franchise could offer its two remaining draft picks to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for experienced cornerback Marlon Humphrey.
Limited Draft Capital and Veteran Acquisition Possibility
The Jerry Jones-owned Cowboys currently hold only two selections in the upcoming draft: the 114th overall pick in the fourth round and the 180th overall pick in the fifth round. These assets could potentially be packaged together to facilitate a trade for Humphrey, who brings nine seasons of NFL experience to the table.
Marlon Humphrey's Recent Performance and Contract Situation
During the 2025 season, Humphrey recorded 68 total tackles, with 53 being solo stops. He also contributed four interceptions, 13 passes defended, and two forced fumbles. However, his Pro Football Focus metrics tell a more nuanced story.
According to PFF data:
- His overall grade of 50.1 ranked him 105th out of 114 qualified cornerbacks
- His coverage grade of 43.8 placed him 112th among peers
- His run-defense grade of 78.9 was significantly stronger, ranking 9th overall
Humphrey is entering the final year of his current contract in 2026, with a scheduled salary of $15 million and three void years remaining. Drummond suggests a contract extension could make his cap hit more manageable for any acquiring team, potentially reducing it to approximately $4 million for the 2026 season.
Why Dallas Might Pursue This Trade
The Cowboys' cornerback situation presents several uncertainties that might make veteran acquisition appealing. While Dallas recently added Cobie Durant from the Los Angeles Rams, he may face competition for a starting role.
Two current Cowboys cornerbacks face particular challenges:
- DaRon Bland was placed on injured reserve in December 2025 due to a persistent left foot fracture requiring surgical intervention
- Shavon Revel Jr. suffered a torn ACL in September 2024 during practice at East Carolina, delaying his NFL debut until late 2025
New defensive coordinator Christian Parker is expected to implement a more zone-oriented defensive scheme, and Humphrey's playing style may align better with this approach than the current options. Parker might prefer experienced players who fit his system over developing younger corners with injury concerns.
Competition from the New York Giants
The Cowboys aren't the only team potentially interested in Humphrey. FOX Sports analyst Ralph Vacchiano has suggested the New York Giants could pursue the veteran cornerback, possibly offering their 2026 fourth-round pick (105th overall) and a conditional 2027 seventh-round selection.
The Giants have their own cornerback concerns, with newly acquired Greg Newsome potentially facing pressure, veteran Paulson Adebo dealing with recent injuries, and analyst criticism of Deonte Banks' development.
Humphrey brings impressive credentials to any potential trade discussion, having earned four Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors during his career. His total career earnings over nine seasons amount to $101 million, and at age 30, he might be available for what analysts consider a reasonable price.
Baltimore's Perspective and Potential Blockbuster Scenario
From the Ravens' standpoint, they might be able to manage without Humphrey. The team re-signed veteran Chidobe Awuzie this offseason, and 2024 draft pick Nate Wiggins is developing as a potential starter.
A more substantial trade scenario could emerge if the Giants were to include edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux in discussions. In April 2025, Spotrac reported that New York had exercised Thibodeaux's $14.75 million fifth-year option for 2026, locking him into two years and $19.7 million in fully guaranteed money.
According to Big Blue View's Ed Valentine, the Giants would consider moving Thibodeaux if offered a Day 2 draft pick in return. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has recently stated that everyone on the roster is potentially tradeable, leaving the door open for various possibilities.
As the NFL offseason continues, the question remains whether Humphrey will reunite with his former head coach in New York, join the Cowboys to bolster their secondary, or remain with the Ravens. The coming weeks should provide clarity on this developing situation.
