Cowboys Stephen Teases Trade Down And Free Agency

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Dallas Cowboys COO Stephen Jones has provided insight into the team’s evolving strategy. 

Speaking this week on 105.3 The Fan, Jones made headlines for acknowledging a potential trade down from the 12th overall pick—but an equally important nugget flew under the radar.

“I don't necessarily see us moving up, based on the way the board's coming together,” Jones stated. “But could see a situation where we move down.”

Then, toward the 12-minute mark of the interview, he added: “We’re not done yet” when asked about bringing in more outside free agents before the draft.

That last line might be the biggest clue yet that the Cowboys are still actively scanning the market. Whether that’s at wide receiver, cornerback, or even the interior offensive line, it reinforces what we’ve been writing for months: the Joneses aren’t standing pat.

Jones’ comments about the draft also align with recent Cowboys history. In 2021, Dallas dropped from pick 10 to 12 and still landed Micah Parsons. In 2024, they traded from pick 24 to 29, adding a third-rounder that became Cooper Beebe. If the board falls a certain way, expect the Cowboys to shop pick 12 again this year.

Jones also cited successful picks like DeMarcus Ware, Zack Martin, and Parsons—all selected in the mid round one range—as proof that franchise-changing talent exists outside the top 10.

With no fourth-rounder in 2025, trading down would allow Dallas to recoup valuable mid-round capital. But make no mistake—more moves are coming before the draft even arrives.

And based on Jones’ tone, they’re not just exploring. They’re hunting.