Cowboys 'Logical' Trade Spot for Colts Defensive Lineman?
The Dallas Cowboys have made some big-time moves this offseason to address what was already an elite-level defense. But it might be hard to pass up adding another new face ... especially if the fit is a "logical" one that brings aboard a veteran coming off of the best season of his career.
CBS Sports released a list Tuesday of the top players with expiring contracts that represent the best post-draft trade candidates. Either by rumor, report, or general speculation, these players all have at least some potential of being traded before the season due to their financial situation and the uncertainty surrounding the likelihood of them inking a new deal with their current squad.
Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart is hardly the biggest name on a list that includes the likes of DeAndre Hopkins, Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, Dalvin Cook and more.
But despite the Hopkins-Cowboys speculation, the wild Henry trade ideas or the Cook rumors (which CowboysSI.com has touched on), Stewart is the only one listed as a "logical" fit with Dallas. CBS had this to say about why:
An underrated mainstay of Indianapolis' front alongside DeForest Buckner, Stewart has been durable and stout as a starting interior man for the last four years. He's also on a fair deal, due $10.875M in 2023 amid a slightly inflated DT market. But the Colts have reason to pivot to more of an offensive focus under coach Shane Steichen, especially with a new QB incoming. And dealing Stewart before his contract expires in 2024, entering his age-30 season, would also clear $9.6M.
Stewart has played all six of his NFL seasons with the Colts, and is coming off the best campaign he's had. This past season, he posted a career-high in total tackles (70), sacks (four), passes defended (three) and blocked the first two kicks of his career.
The impressive numbers creates the argument that his addition to an already-stout Cowboys defensive front would be a logical one. (The “rental’ at $9.285 million, not so much.) Stewart could also reunite with former Colts teammate and All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who Dallas traded for in March.
But the Cowboys would have to consider how much they'd be giving up in a potential trade and the fact they could be faced with the dilemma of trying to strike a team-friendly deal with Stewart next offseason if he performs well.
For now, "logical" might be a stretch when it comes to choosing words to label a Stewart-Cowboys trade idea. But it's certainly a tantalizing thought to imagine him rushing the passer and filling the gaps alongside Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and first-round rookie Mazi Smith
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
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