Over the past couple of years, the Dallas Cowboys have worked hard to strengthen major parts of their defensive line. One concern remains over the roster as the middle of the field remains shaky. Recently, there have been fresh trade links around a veteran tackling machine who can play a crucial role in stabilizing the unit.

According to a recent trade pitch from Heavy.com, the Cowboys could target Minnesota Vikings linebacker Blake Cashman, who is on a $22.5 million contract. 

This move could be important for the Cowboys as they had a poor season in 2024, and things only worsened in 2025, allowing 377 yards per game (30th) and 30.1 points (32nd). 

Dallas sees a chance to add Cashman since he enters the final year of a three-year contract and is coming off another productive tackling season.

Despite missing time through injury, he managed 144 tackles in only 13 games last season. That is hard to ignore for a Cowboys defense who are desperate for consistency in the middle.

Moreover, Minnesota recently drafted linebacker Jake Golday in the second round, as Cashman entered the final year of his contract. Adding more uncertainty in the linebacker position, they signed linebacker Eric Wilson to a three-year, $22.5 million extension.

Pro Football Focus analyst Bradley Locker addressed Cashman’s uncertain future directly after drafting Golday and extending Wilson.

“Once the centerpiece of Minnesota’s fabulous defense, Cashman could be on the move after a down year,” Locker wrote. “In light of Cashman’s decline, as well as this being the final year of his contract, the Vikings drafted linebacker Jake Golday in the second round and extended Eric Wilson. That suggests that either he or Ivan Pace Jr. could have their days numbered in purple."

With that in mind, the Cowboys could look to pursue Cashman before training camp.

Dallas has worked heavily in their defense over the past two years, but adding another linebacker can be the game-changer.

Blake Cashman Could Complete Cowboys’ Defensive Rebuild

The Cowboys’ defensive rebuild could finally feel complete if they manage to sign Cashman. Even without another addition, Dallas has already made several major defensive moves this offseason. 

From 2025, they started to work on their defensive front with trades like Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark. The Cowboys then added edge rusher and the 2019 1st-round pick, Rashan Gary, this offseason. In 2026, they drafted the 1st-round pick on UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence at No. 23 overall.

A major boost came with $33 million free-agent safety Jalen Thompson.

Despite already reshaping the defense, the Cowboys may still feel another linebacker is needed before the season begins. If Minnesota opens to offers, Cashman could emerge as the final piece in Dallas’ defensive rebuild ahead of the season.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar