Cowboys’ Plans for Roster Upgrades Still in Front of Them After Commanders Trade for Deebo Samuel
The Dallas Cowboys have long been known for their dynamic offense and robust defense, but with the 2025 NFL season fast approaching, they face tough decisions regarding their roster as they look to strengthen their championship aspirations. While the Cowboys have already made some moves to improve their roster, their competition is actively upgrading as well. A prime example of this is the Washington Commanders’ recent trade for wide receiver Deebo Samuel, a dynamic playmaker who immediately bolsters their offense. This move has forced the Cowboys to reassess their own plans for roster upgrades to ensure they remain competitive in a stacked NFC East.
Washington’s Bold Move for Deebo Samuel
The Commanders’ acquisition of Deebo Samuel is one of the most significant moves of the offseason so far. Samuel, who has become one of the most versatile and explosive players in the NFL, gives Washington a true offensive weapon. Known for his ability to impact the game both as a wide receiver and a running back, Samuel immediately changes the dynamics of Washington’s offense. His playmaking ability in both the passing and running game gives them a multidimensional threat that the Cowboys will have to contend with twice a year in divisional matchups.
This trade puts even more pressure on the Cowboys, who have already seen their NFC East rivals make significant improvements in recent seasons. With the Commanders now possessing a true game-changer like Samuel, Dallas will need to be proactive in making roster upgrades of their own to avoid falling behind in a highly competitive division.
Cowboys’ Roster Needs After the Deebo Trade
Despite some strong individual performances in 2024, the Cowboys still have areas of need they must address before the season starts. After seeing Washington land a dynamic player like Samuel, Dallas’ front office is likely re-evaluating their plans for roster upgrades, particularly in terms of offensive firepower and defensive depth.
1. Wide Receiver Depth
While CeeDee Lamb has solidified himself as the Cowboys’ top wide receiver, Dallas lacks another consistent playmaker to complement him. Brandin Cooks, who was acquired last offseason, has had flashes of brilliance, but his role was inconsistent. Adding another explosive receiver capable of stretching the field and creating mismatches, similar to how Deebo Samuel impacts the game, would take pressure off Lamb and make the Cowboys’ offense more unpredictable. The team will need to look for potential trades, signings, or draft picks to address this need.
2. Offensive Line Depth
Though the Cowboys’ offensive line has been one of the league’s better units in recent years, age and injuries have begun to catch up. Tyron Smith, a stalwart for many seasons, has struggled to stay healthy, and other key players have shown signs of decline. Strengthening the depth of the offensive line would give Dak Prescott more protection and improve the overall effectiveness of the running game. As the Commanders and other NFC East teams continue to bolster their rosters, upgrading the offensive line should remain a priority for Dallas.
3. Defensive Backfield
Dallas has one of the top defenses in the league, but their secondary could use a boost, especially with Washington’s improved offensive weaponry. While Trevon Diggs is a playmaking corner, the Cowboys could benefit from adding more depth and experience in the defensive backfield. The ability to shut down a weapon like Deebo Samuel will require more than just one elite cornerback; additional reinforcements in the secondary will be key to maintaining a strong defensive identity.
4. Defensive Line Depth
The Cowboys’ pass rush, led by Micah Parsons, remains one of the most feared in the league. However, as teams improve their offensive lines and the NFC East continues to get tougher, depth along the defensive line will be crucial to ensuring the pass rush stays effective throughout the season. Dallas should consider adding rotational pieces who can keep the defensive front fresh and explosive in high-stakes games.
Looking Ahead: Potential Roster Upgrades
Dallas has already made key moves this offseason, including potential contract negotiations and evaluating players in-house. However, the competition is intensifying within the division, particularly with Washington’s trade for Deebo Samuel. The Cowboys may now need to accelerate their plans to address their roster deficiencies.
The upcoming NFL draft and free agency period are pivotal for the Cowboys. The team may look to add a dynamic wide receiver or defensive playmaker, and they could find opportunities in free agency or with a potential trade. The Cowboys also have the flexibility to make moves if the right player becomes available, whether through trade or signing, to keep pace with the Commanders, Eagles, and Giants.
Conclusion
The Washington Commanders’ trade for Deebo Samuel has shaken up the NFC East and put pressure on the Cowboys to strengthen their roster. While the Cowboys have a solid core in place, they must continue to make strategic upgrades in key areas like wide receiver depth, offensive line stability, and defensive backfield strength. With the NFC East becoming more competitive by the day, the Cowboys’ front office will need to act quickly to ensure they are in position to compete for a division title and beyond in 2025.
