BREAKING NEWS:Dan Orlovsky Suggest Cowboys Stars Could Request Trade Amid Disappointing Offseason
The Dallas Cowboys have long been one of the most high-profile teams in the NFL. With a storied history, a massive fan base, and a brand synonymous with success, the Cowboys often draw attention even in the offseason. However, this year’s offseason has been particularly difficult for the franchise, sparking conversations about whether some of their star players might request trades due to frustration and disappointment surrounding the team’s direction. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky recently weighed in on this, suggesting that the team’s key figures could seek a fresh start if things don’t change soon.
The Cowboys entered the 2024 season with high hopes, especially after a promising 2023 campaign that saw them make it to the playoffs once again. Despite some high points, including a stellar season from quarterback Dak Prescott, Dallas fell short of the ultimate goal—Super Bowl contention. The team’s failure to reach the NFC Championship game despite a strong roster left many fans and analysts alike wondering what the future holds for this talented but seemingly underachieving squad.
Orlovsky’s comments come on the heels of several disappointing offseason moves, or rather, the lack of them. The Cowboys’ decision to hold steady with their current roster rather than make big splashes in free agency or through trades has left a sour taste for some players and fans. While teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers have been aggressive in upgrading their rosters, the Cowboys have been more reserved. This has prompted concerns over whether the team is truly committed to building a Super Bowl contender around their franchise quarterback and other marquee players like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and defensive star Micah Parsons.
Orlovsky pointed out that the lack of aggressive moves could create an environment where some of Dallas’ top players might feel disillusioned, potentially leading them to request trades. He specifically highlighted how players like Prescott, who has been with the team since 2016, could grow frustrated with the lack of progress. While Prescott is signed to a sizable contract, his window for success is narrowing, and with the team’s inability to put together a championship roster, his patience could wear thin.
The situation is further compounded by the Cowboys’ recent struggles in the postseason. Despite boasting one of the league’s top defenses, Dallas has failed to make a deep playoff run in recent years. Many feel that this could be the year for the Cowboys to push past their playoff disappointments and finally make a run at a Super Bowl, but that dream has been tempered by a lack of significant roster changes. Orlovsky alluded to the fact that while some players are patient, others might start to look around and question whether their prime years are being wasted in Dallas.
Another key point in Orlovsky’s analysis was the potential discontent brewing within the locker room. While many players have maintained positive attitudes throughout the offseason, frustration could start to mount as the season progresses and the Cowboys continue to fail to meet expectations. Players like Micah Parsons, who is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the league, may begin to wonder if their efforts are being maximized. Similarly, CeeDee Lamb, whose talent is undeniable, might start to feel that his potential as one of the league’s top receivers is being held back by inconsistent play and a lack of support around him.
Despite these concerns, the Cowboys are far from a team in disarray. The franchise still boasts a solid roster with plenty of talent, and head coach Mike McCarthy is under pressure to make sure the team rises to the occasion in 2024. If Dallas can put together a successful season and show its stars that the organization is committed to winning now, the idea of players requesting trades could be avoided.
However, it remains to be seen whether the Cowboys’ front office can address the frustrations of their key players in time to salvage the current roster and keep the team’s stars happy. For now, the conversation surrounding potential trade requests will continue to loom over the team, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already high-stakes season.
The Dallas Cowboys may be on the cusp of a defining moment in their franchise’s future—whether they will be able to right the ship and secure a Super Bowl, or if their stars will look elsewhere for the success that has so far eluded them in Dallas. Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: the pressure is on.
