The Dallas Cowboys could use some help on defense. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus has been a talking point for all the wrong reasons, and the fact of the matter is that he may not have the personnel to turn things around.
That's why all the rumors about their interest in trading for Maxx Crosby make perfect sense. He'd give their struggling pass-rushing department a much-needed boost while also being the perfect replacement for Micah Parsons. However, ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler believes they could also set their sights on a lesser target: Arden Key.
The Dallas Cowboys Could Trade For Arden Key
"The Titans are open to trading players who are in the last year of a contract and are not in the franchise's long-term plans. Key fits that mold. And if pass-rush-hunting teams strike out on big names, Key is a serviceable alternative," Fowler wrote.
Of course, Key is nowhere near Crosby in terms of talent or production, but trading for him wouldn't necessarily mean they couldn't trade for Crosby. If anything, Key would be a complementary rotational piece and a solid situational pass-rusher. Also, he might be much easier to get. As an expiring contract, Dallas might be able to acquire him for a sixth-round selection.
Despite missing two games for the slumping Tennessee Titans, Key is up to nine pressures and two sacks. He logged 12.5 total sacks in his past two seasons, and while he hasn't been as impactful this year, it's hard to blame him, considering how much his team has struggled in all aspects of the game.
Fowler also reported that, with the Tennessee Titans losing Oluwafemi Oladejo for the long run with an injury, there's also a chance that they will have no choice but to stick with Key for the remainder of the season. Still, Tennessee should consider moving him if the right offer comes along.
While not a superstar, Key could provide Eberflus with a versatile piece capable of lining up at both linebacker and defensive end. And given how much Sam Williams has struggled this season, the Cowboys certainly need to consider all their options before the trade deadline.
Dallas boasts one of the best offenses in the league after seven weeks, and there's no reason to believe that's going to change down the stretch. Now, it's all about helping the defense catch up with the other side of the ball and actually give the Cowboys a chance to compete.