Despite losing quarterback Dak Prescott for a few weeks, the Dallas Cowboys still added to their offense at the 2024 NFL Trade Deadline. Reports confirm that Dallas sent a 2025 4th-round pick to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a 2025 7th-round pick and wide receiver Jonathan Mingo.
Jonathan Mingo’s start in the NFL has been challenging, with 12 catches on 26 targets for 121 yards (10.1 yards per catch) this season, and he has yet to score a touchdown. Mingo has not topped 40 receiving yards in a game this year and has only one catch in his last four games. The 2023 second-round pick from Ole Miss could climb the Cowboys’ depth chart and improve over time.
This trade was unexpected, considering the high price, yet the rationale seems straightforward. The Jets traded a conditional 3rd-round pick for Davante Adams, and the Chiefs gave a conditional 5th-round pick for DeAndre Hopkins.
Why did the Cowboys make this trade?
The Cowboys committed to wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott this offseason. Next offseason, they need to sign linebacker Micah Parsons, meaning they must balance their budget with low-cost players. Jonathan Mingo, still on his rookie deal, fits that need, even if he isn’t the high-profile target fans wanted.
The trade’s main benefit is adding a player on a rookie contract, especially as Dallas faces injuries and an uncertain season. Mingo may become a fringe starting receiver and continue to develop.
