NFL Update: Jerry Jones and Defensive Moves for Chiefs and Dolphins

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly pursuing a high-profile strategy for the 2026 NFL Draft, with indications that Jerry Jones is prepared to trade into the top three selections to secure a top-tier prospect. This aggressive approach comes as the organization seeks to overhaul a defensive unit that Jones described as one of the worst in franchise history.

Cowboys’ Defensive Overhaul

Addressing the defense has been the primary emphasis for the Cowboys entering the 2026 offseason. During the NFL Owners Meetings, Jerry Jones acknowledged the team’s willingness to bust the budget to ensure significant improvements on the defensive side of the ball.

Jones stated on April 1, 2026, that the team has already been aggressive in its financial commitments. He noted that the organization has stepped up the financial requirements for their recent moves and suggested that they may have already exceeded their initial budget, though he emphasized that the process is not yet complete.

The Cowboys’ additions so far in the 2026 offseason have focused heavily on the defensive line and the secondary. Despite these moves, Jones identified the linebacker position as the most glaring gap on the current roster, as it is the only defensive position where the team has not added an external player.

To address this need, the Cowboys are exploring options leading up to the NFL Draft. Reports indicate the team has made a serious inquiry regarding a Miami Dolphins linebacker with a $26 million valuation.

Kansas City Chiefs Roster Moves

While Dallas focuses on the draft, the Kansas City Chiefs have been active with a series of roster transactions throughout March and April 2026 to solidify their depth.

The Chiefs have focused on retaining key veterans and adding depth across multiple positions. Notable contract activity includes:

• Re-signing tight end Travis Kelce on March 23, 2026.
• Re-signing linebacker Jack Cochrane on March 20, 2026.
• Signing cornerback Kaiir Elam to a one-year contract on April 2, 2026.
• Signing safety Aholi Gilman, defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga, and running back Kenneth Walker III on March 12, 2026.

The team also added offensive line depth, signing Mike Caliendo to a one-year deal on March 14 and Mike Callendo on March 19. However, the Chiefs did move on from offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor, who was released on March 4, 2026, and defensive end Michael Danna, who was released on February 23, 2026.

Buffalo Bills Offseason Activity

The Buffalo Bills have also made significant moves to reshape their roster for the 2026 season, most notably through a major trade involving the receiving corps.

Buffalo acquired wide receiver DJ Moore from the Chicago Bears. The trade included a 2026 fifth-round pick coming to Buffalo, while the Bills surrendered a 2026 second-round selection to complete the deal.

In addition to the Moore trade, the Bills have addressed other positions through free agency and extensions:

• Tight end Dawson Knox signed a new three-year contract, securing him beyond the 2026 season.
• Quarterbacks Kyle Allen (two-year contract) and Shane Buechele (one-year contract) were signed.
• Wide receiver Trent Sherfield signed a one-year deal.
• Offensive linemen Austin Corbett and center Lloyd Cushenberry both signed one-year contracts.