NFL analyst thinks Dallas Cowboys could trade this key defender

After a quiet offseason, the Dallas Cowboys should be looking at ways to add to their roster ahead of the 2024 season. But one NFL analyst believes there's a chance they could trade a key veteran defender.

Pro Football Network's Anthony DiBona recently compiled a list of one player from each team that could be on the trade block and he chose veteran edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence for the Cowboys.

DiBona cites Lawrence's age and contract situation (he's on the final year of his deal) as the reasons why Dallas could part ways with him. Here's his write-up:

While it’s clear that Micah Parsons is a foundational piece on the edge for the Dallas Cowboys, DeMarcus Lawrence isn’t getting any younger. Lawrence is heading into the final year of his three-year contract with the Cowboys.

Dallas could actually save $10 million by trading Lawrence, which would free up more snaps for the Cowboys’ young pass rushers. Dallas selected Marshawn Kneeland in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, potentially signaling the end of Lawrence’s tenure.

While DiBona's reasons are valid, there's no way the Cowboys trade Lawrence before the season starts. He's simply too important to the defense and such a deal would leave the Cowboys with a gaping hole upfront that won't easily be filled.

Now, if the Cowboys find themselves in the midst of a disastrous season before the trade deadline, it could happen. However, there's very little chance Dallas will be in that position in 2024.