Three NFC contenders — the Cowboys, Eagles, and Lions — are shaping up as potential suitors for a premier pass-rusher in the 2026 offseason.

Detroit entered this year believing Al-Quadin Muhammad could be the ideal complement to Aidan Hutchinson, but after a fast start, the veteran has regressed toward his career norm as a rotational piece. As a result, the Lions’ pass rush has taken a noticeable step back.

Dallas, meanwhile, traded Micah Parsons to the Packers and has yet to bring in anyone capable of matching his production off the edge. Reports indicated they explored moves for a pass rusher at the deadline, but nothing materialized.

Philadelphia did make a splash by acquiring Jaelan Phillips from Miami. Still, with Phillips slated to become a free agent in 2026 — and even assuming he re-signs — the Eagles would benefit from adding more pressure off the edge.

Maxx Crosby emerging as a possible trade target

One name all three franchises could be circling is Raiders star Maxx Crosby, who NFL Trade Rumors’ Logan Ulrich recently identified as a potential 2026 trade candidate.

Las Vegas has repeatedly turned away trade inquiries for Crosby over the past two years, including during both the 2024 and 2025 deadlines. Yet with the Raiders likely heading into another rebuild and Crosby staring down the possibility of playing for a fourth head coach in as many seasons, the situation could shift.

Crosby has only been part of one winning season in his seven years with the Raiders, and this latest campaign under first-year coach Pete Carroll has brought little improvement. Ulrich notes that while neither the team nor Crosby has shown interest in a split, growing frustration could eventually push the star defender to request a move to a contender.

If Crosby does ask out, the Raiders — who value him highly but also need draft capital — may finally entertain offers.

Why the Cowboys, Lions, and Eagles would be in the mix

Dallas already attempted to land Crosby before the trade deadline, according to rumors, so they would likely re-enter the conversation quickly.

Detroit’s cap space for 2026 isn’t ideal, but if next season goes poorly, the Lions could feel pressured to make a bold move to elevate their championship chances.

And with Eagles GM Howie Roseman’s aggressive track record, it’s hard to imagine Philadelphia sitting out anything resembling a blockbuster. His willingness to pursue Myles Garrett — reportedly offering a massive package — shows he won’t hesitate if Crosby becomes attainable.

What a deal could cost

Any trade is expected to start with at least a first-round pick. Dallas is in an advantageous position, holding two first-rounders in 2026, which gives them more flexibility than Detroit or Philadelphia. Their own 2026 first-rounder also projects to be earlier than the Lions’ or Eagles’, a selling point for a Raiders team preparing to rebuild.