The Dallas Cowboys continue to be mentioned as a potential landing spot for star receiver Davante Adams in a blockbuster trade with the Las Vegas Raiders. There are conflicting reports about the Cowboys’ actual interest in acquiring Adams.
If Dallas decides to pursue Adams, what would it cost to land the six-time Pro Bowl receiver? According to Jon Machota of The Athletic, a possible trade package could include a 2025 third-round pick and wide receiver Jalen Brooks.
“The Raiders will likely receive better offers, but the Cowboys are limited in what they can offer in terms of future draft picks,” Machota wrote in an October 2, 2024, article titled, “Davante Adams trade proposals: What could the Raiders get for the future Hall of Fame WR?” “Dallas recently made Dak Prescott the league’s highest-paid player, and CeeDee Lamb the second-highest-paid non-quarterback. The team also plans to sign Micah Parsons to a deal that could make him the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback.
“… The Cowboys have more pressing needs, such as along the defensive line and at running back, but owner/GM Jerry Jones has always been intrigued by wide receivers. While he’s found success drafting players like Dez Bryant and Lamb, he’s also shown a willingness to make bold moves for veteran playmakers,” Machota continued.
“He traded two first-round picks for Joey Galloway in 2000. He signed Terrell Owens in 2006. He traded first-, third-, and sixth-round picks for Roy Williams in 2008. He also traded a first-round pick for Amari Cooper in 2018.”
The Cowboys Are ‘Monitoring’ a Potential Blockbuster Trade for Adams
One major obstacle in a potential deal is Adams’ significant five-year, $140 million contract. Beyond the 2024 season, Adams has two more years left on his deal, which includes a $25.3 million cap hit and a $16.8 million salary for 2024.
Rumors about a potential Adams trade to Dallas gained traction when Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that the Cowboys were “monitoring” the situation.
“The Jets and Cowboys are among the teams monitoring Davante Adams’ situation,” Russini shared on X (formerly Twitter) on October 2. “Both teams have checked in with the Raiders. However, I’m told Vegas is in no rush to move him unless their asking price is met — but Adams is eager to leave ASAP.”
Conflicting Reports on the Cowboys’ Interest in Adams
NFL Network’s Jane Slater later reported that Dallas is not interested in trading for Adams, citing financial constraints as a key reason.
“Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed his respect for Davante Adams but declined to discuss trade talks or player acquisitions,” Slater said in an October 2 message on X. “Internally, I’m told the Cowboys aren’t pursuing Adams — they ‘don’t have the money,’ and with next year’s draft capital being more important than ever, they’re hesitant to make a move.”
The Cowboys are currently short-handed at wide receiver behind CeeDee Lamb, with Brandin Cooks on Injured Reserve. Jalen Tolbert had a breakout game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, recording 7 catches for 87 yards and a game-winning touchdown. Given Adams’ financial situation, it remains uncertain if Dallas will make an aggressive push to acquire him.
