Dallas Cowboys Acquire Rashan Gary from Green Bay Packers
The Dallas Cowboys have acquired defensive lineman Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick. This transaction marks the second consecutive offseason the two teams have completed a trade.
The agreement involves the Green Bay Packers sending Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys in return for a fourth-round selection in the 2027 NFL Draft. Following this deal, the Cowboys now hold six selections in the 2027 draft.
Player Profile and Career Performance
Rashan Gary, 28, is a veteran defensive lineman who has played his entire seven-year NFL career with the Packers. He was originally the No. 12 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Gary started 15 games in the most recent season.
Over his career, he has accumulated 46.5 sacks, including 7.5 sacks in two consecutive years, leading the Packers in sacks during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Earlier this month at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst had commented on Gary's impact and talent.
Financial Implications and Cap Space
Gary's projected salary cap hit for 2026 is $19.5 million, which is non-guaranteed. Reports indicated that the Packers had been exploring trade options for Gary due to this salary, potentially considering his release if a trade partner was not secured to shed cap space.
The acquisition adjusts the Cowboys' cap space to $-20.2 million. The transaction allows the Packers to shed cap space, providing them with more financial flexibility.
Franchise History and Defensive Boost
This trade follows a previous deal between the two franchises last offseason, where the Cowboys sent edge rusher Micah Parsons to the Packers in exchange for defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first-round draft picks.
The Cowboys' pass-rush recorded 35 total sacks in 2025. The current deal is reported to bolster the Cowboys' defense, adding a proven pass-rusher to their front.
Pre-Trade Speculation
Prior to the trade, Gary posted a message on Instagram that was subsequently deleted, which led to speculation regarding his future with the team. Claims of his account being hacked were also reported during this period.