Dallas Cowboys Eye Trade for All-Pro Safety to Strengthen Defense

The Dallas Cowboys are exploring a potential trade to acquire a three-time All-Pro defensive player in an attempt to address significant weaknesses

they’ve shown in their first five games of the 2024 NFL season.

Following a thrilling 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, highlighted by

Dak Prescott’s game-winning touchdown pass to Jalen Tolbert with just 20 seconds remaining, discussions around bolstering the team’s secondary have intensified.

Despite Prescott’s impressive 352 yards passing, his two interceptions and a fumble have raised concerns.

The team’s defensive struggles have led to speculation about trading for Budda Baker, a safety with the Arizona Cardinals and a three-time All-Pro.

Baker, recognized as a first-team All-Pro in both 2017 and 2020, and a second-team selection in 2021, is viewed as a solution to the Cowboys’ defensive woes.

According to insights from Bleacher Report’s NFL scouting department,

the Cowboys need to strengthen their safety position, where both Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker have received disappointing grades from Pro Football Focus, each falling below 60 in performance this season.

Baker, who is 28 years old, has been seen as a valuable trade asset due to his previous request for a new contract last offseason.

While he ultimately accepted a raise for the 2023 season, his long-term situation with the Cardinals remains unclear.

The former 36th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft had an impressive 2022 season, recording 111 tackles, one forced fumble, two interceptions, and seven pass deflections.

The Cowboys could significantly enhance their defense by acquiring Baker, but it’s important to note that such a move would likely come with a hefty price tag.

The Cardinals are expected to receive multiple inquiries regarding Baker, particularly if they are looking to acquire valuable draft capital in exchange for their standout player.

Adding Baker to the roster would not only fortify the Cowboys’ secondary but also bring a level of skill and experience that could elevate

the team’s overall performance as they navigate through the rest of the season.

As the Cowboys aim to strengthen their playoff hopes, securing a player of Baker’s caliber could be pivotal.

The discussions around this potential trade reflect the urgency for Dallas to address its defensive issues

while considering the financial implications and what it might cost in terms of draft picks or other players.

The ongoing evaluation of the team’s needs highlights the complexities involved in making strategic trades during the season, as they balance short-term gains with long-term goals. With the deadline approaching, all eyes will be on the Cowboys’ front office to see if they take the plunge to bring in a player who has already proven his worth at the highest level.

In a competitive league, the ability to adapt and strengthen key positions is crucial, and for the Cowboys, pursuing a trade for Budda Baker could be a game-changing decision that resonates throughout the remainder of the season.

As they weigh their options, fans are left wondering whether this potential move will materialize and how it might impact their journey toward playoff contention.