News is on Stephen Jones Hints at Trade-Down Strategy: Cowboys Eye Value Over Flash in ….
In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones made headlines by stating that the team is more likely to trade down in the first round than move up. The comment gives insight into the team’s strategic mindset as they prepare to reload a roster that’s still on the cusp of contention but grappling with cap constraints and depth issues.
Jones, speaking to local media this week, emphasized that the Cowboys are “open for business” when it comes to maneuvering in the draft, but added, “Going up would likely cost us future picks or significant capital we need. It’s far more likely we go the other direction.”
It’s a practical approach that aligns with the Cowboys’ recent draft trends. Rather than chasing splashy moves, Dallas has often opted to stockpile picks and address multiple needs with value selections. This strategy has helped them land solid contributors like Tyler Smith and DaRon Bland in recent years without overreaching or giving up major assets.
Dallas currently holds the 24th pick in the first round, and while fans may dream of trading up for a blue-chip offensive lineman or dynamic defensive playmaker, Jones’s comments indicate the front office is more focused on long-term roster building than making a headline move.
“There’s depth in this draft,” Jones said. “If you can slide back a few spots and still get a guy you graded highly, while picking up an extra third or fourth-rounder, that’s a win for us.”
The Cowboys face needs at offensive line, running back, and defensive tackle, and trading down could allow them to address multiple areas with starter-level talent. Analysts have already speculated that teams picking early in the second round may look to jump up to 24 if a quarterback or receiver unexpectedly falls, giving Dallas the opportunity to leverage their position.
While trading down may lack the drama fans crave on draft night, it often leads to more balanced roster construction. And in a competitive NFC where depth often determines postseason success, Jones and the Cowboys appear to be thinking about the bigger picture.
Cowboys Caution Fans: First-Round Fireworks Unlikely as Stephen Jones Signals Conservative Draft Approach”
Cowboys Nation, temper your expectations — there may not be any fireworks on night one of the NFL Draft.
Executive vice president Stephen Jones threw cold water on dreams of an aggressive first-round trade-up this week, stating bluntly that the Dallas Cowboys are more likely to move down the draft board than climb up. “We’re not ruling anything out,” he said, “but the smart money is on trading back.”
The comment, while not entirely shocking, comes as a reality check for fans hoping for a bold move to land a marquee prospect. But the Cowboys, still navigating the financial ripple effects of big contracts for Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons, appear set on maximizing flexibility and depth over making a splash.
In previous drafts, Dallas has found success by letting the board come to them. In 2022, the Cowboys waited patiently and grabbed Tyler Smith, who has since become a key piece on the offensive line. Jones and his front office seem content to let a similar scenario play out in 2025.
Draft experts suggest this year’s class features significant value in the late first and early second rounds, particularly among interior linemen, linebackers, and safeties — three areas where Dallas could use immediate help. By trading down a few spots, the Cowboys could still land a starter-level player while gaining additional mid-round capital.
It’s a pragmatic philosophy that prioritizes roster balance, especially critical as the Cowboys aim to remain competitive in a tough NFC East. The Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants have made aggressive moves this offseason, and the Washington Commanders hold the No. 2 overall pick. But Jones insists that Dallas won’t be drawn into keeping up with the neighbors.
“We’re not looking to win the offseason. We’re looking to win in January,” he said.
Still, not everyone is thrilled. Some fans worry that a trade-down could mean missing out on an elite talent — especially if a top tackle or pass rusher slips into range. Others point to the team’s lack of playoff success as a reason to be more aggressive, not less.
But Jones and head coach Mike McCarthy are betting on their draft room to deliver once again. And if recent history is any guide, Dallas might just find another hidden gem without the need to leapfrog anyone.
For now, Cowboys fans can expect a calm, calculated approach — one that might not make headlines on draft night, but could pay off when it matters most.
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