The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly ended their pursuit of Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen, according to beat writer Nick Harris. Harris stated on March 20, 2026, that Dallas has pivoted to other trade options. Pittsburgh's payment of Queen's roster bonus signals he will remain with the team for the 2026 season.
Speculation linked the Dallas Cowboys to a trade for Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen during the first week of free agency, as Dallas sought off-ball linebacker help after top free agents signed elsewhere. Nick Harris, the Cowboys' beat writer, tweeted on March 20, 2026: “They’ve pivoted off Queen. Al-Shaair & Brooks are being discussed though.” Harris had been among those initially connecting Dallas to Queen amid their search for linebacker reinforcements. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh reduced its incentive to trade Queen by paying his $2.5 million roster bonus over the weekend, indicating the team plans to keep him. Queen enters the final year of his contract, with his future beyond 2026 uncertain. The Steelers face challenges with Queen's inconsistent play under new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who aims to improve the front seven and linebacker group. Payton Wilson requires a breakout season, including better run defense and versatility beyond nickel packages. Pittsburgh is preparing contingencies, having hosted Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez for a pre-draft visit and with draft insiders viewing Georgia’s CJ Allen as a potential sleeper pick at No. 21 overall. Queen's position on the 2026 roster appears secure, while Dallas looks elsewhere for upgrades.
