Cowboys Add Von Miller but Jerry Jones Keeps Trade Door Open

Key points

• Jerry Jones stated that the signing of Von Miller does not preclude a major trade, saying he would 'take a little of the future' to help the team if the right opportunity arises.
• The Cowboys agreed to terms with Miller on Sunday, with the 37-year-old veteran expected to begin a ramp-up process at training camp in Oxnard, California, on Tuesday.
• B.T. Jordan, the team's pass rush consultant, vouched for Miller, noting his quickness and shape after working with him as a personal trainer.
• Jones expressed increased optimism about the team's chances following a 17-7 preseason victory over the Seattle Seahawks, praising the defense's performance under new coordinator Christian Parker.
• Miller, who played for the Washington Commanders last season, is returning to his home state of Texas and is the NFL's current active career leader in sacks.

Background

The Cowboys had signaled a willingness to trade a future first-round pick for a defensive playmaker in late July. Jones previously described the team as underdogs entering the 2026 season but expressed confidence in their potential. The team has not won a Super Bowl since 1995, and Jones has historically linked major defensive acquisitions, such as Charles Haley and Deion Sanders, to championship success.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and the Dallas Cowboys official site emphasize Jones's continued openness to a trade despite the Miller signing, framing it as a sign of confidence in the team's trajectory. USA Today focuses on Miller's personal history, noting his return to Texas and his previous regret over signing with the Commanders instead of the Seattle Seahawks. While all sources confirm the one-year deal, the team's official site highlights the preseason win as a key factor in Jones's positive outlook, whereas NBC Sports focuses more on the historical parallels to past championship runs.

Why it matters

The Cowboys are attempting to break a 30-year championship drought. Jones's willingness to trade future assets for immediate defensive help indicates a high-stakes approach to the 2026 season. The addition of Miller provides veteran leadership and pass-rush expertise, but the potential for a further trade suggests the front office believes the team is still not quite at the level required to win the Super Bowl.

What to watch

The Cowboys will continue training camp in Oxnard through August 18 before returning to Frisco. Jones will monitor the market for potential trades while evaluating the defense's progress. Miller will begin his ramp-up process to determine his role on the roster.