The Dallas Cowboys are set to enhance their struggling defense by acquiring veteran linebacker Logan Wilson from the Cincinnati Bengals. According to sources, the Cowboys will send a seventh-round draft pick to Cincinnati as part of the deal. This trade comes on the heels of the Cowboys’ disappointing 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on November 6, 2023, a game that highlighted their defensive struggles this season.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hinted at the impending trade prior to the game, suggesting that Dallas was close to finalizing a deal before the NFL’s trade deadline. Wilson, who had requested a trade from the Bengals last month, fits a need for the Cowboys, who currently rank 31st in the league in both total defense (397.4 yards per game) and scoring defense (30.8 points per game).
Wilson, 29, signed a four-year, $36 million extension in July 2023, which leaves him with two years remaining on his contract. Over the past four seasons, he has consistently recorded over 100 tackles each year. However, his playing time has diminished this season, prompting his request for a trade.
The Cowboys’ linebacker situation has been fluid, with Kenneth Murray Jr. starting every game while several others, including Jack Sanborn, rookie Shemar James, Marist Liufau, and Damone Clark, have rotated in at the other linebacker spots. The team struggled against the run, allowing over 136 rushing yards in five consecutive games, with many opponents achieving their season-high point totals against them.
Wilson will have the opportunity to acclimate to his new team during the Cowboys’ bye week, before they return to action on November 17, 2023, facing the Las Vegas Raiders on “Monday Night Football.” This trade aims to bolster the Cowboys’ defense as they seek to improve their record of 3-5-1 and make a push for the playoffs.
