The Dallas Cowboys face significant challenges on the offensive side of the ball in 2025, particularly in strengthening their offensive line and securing reliable playmakers behind star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. With Brandin Cooks hitting free agency, the Cowboys are left with a group of young, unproven wide receivers, which will put additional pressure on Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott.
In response to this need, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine proposes a trade between the Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks involving wide receiver Tyler Lockett. The suggested trade would see the Cowboys sending a 2025 fifth-round pick to Seattle in exchange for Lockett, who has proven to be a capable receiver despite his age.
Ballentine suggests that trading some of Dallas’ surplus fifth-round picks would be a smart move, as it’s unlikely that all of them will hit. Acquiring a player like Lockett, who can contribute immediately, would be a better use of those picks. Additionally, Lockett’s familiarity with offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer’s system could help bridge the gap as the Cowboys transition from Mike McCarthy’s offense to Schottenheimer’s approach as head coach.
While Lockett, now 32, had a somewhat underwhelming 2024 season, accumulating only 600 yards, he remains a reliable target. He finished the season as the third receiver in Seattle’s pecking order due to the emergence of rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Despite this, Lockett still showed flashes of his playmaking ability.
However, Lockett’s contract presents a major obstacle to this potential trade. His cap hit for 2025 is a hefty $30.8 million, making it difficult for Dallas to absorb his deal. Additionally, the Cowboys would likely be hesitant to restructure his contract by adding void years, which would push more money into future seasons and leave them financially burdened when Lockett eventually becomes a free agent in 2026.
The Seahawks are also dealing with significant salary cap issues, sitting $13.4 million over the cap. This puts them in a position where they may need to trade or cut players to get back under the cap. Lockett, with his large contract, is a prime candidate for such a move. If the Seahawks choose to cut him, they could save $17 million, easing their cap situation.
While the Cowboys may be interested in adding Lockett as a depth receiver, they would need the Seahawks to absorb a portion of his contract for this trade to be feasible. The financial burden of his current deal makes this move unlikely unless Seattle is willing to contribute a significant amount of money to facilitate the deal.
Ultimately, while Dallas could consider pursuing Lockett if he becomes available at a more affordable price—such as if Seattle cuts him—his current contract presents a significant challenge for the Cowboys to absorb. If the Seahawks are unable to find a solution with Lockett’s deal, a trade or release may be the most realistic option.
