What happened: Dallas is finalizing a deal sending a 2028 second-round pick to Pittsburgh for cornerback help through the current season. The structure preserves eligibility for a 2028 compensatory pick if the cornerback signs elsewhere next offseason.

Why it matters: The mechanism lowers the long-term draft cost of a short-term secondary upgrade. Dallas has already used 12 defensive backs through three games entering Week 4. Retaining compensatory eligibility gives the front office a path to restock the 2028 draft if the starter departs.

What to watch: He was ruled out for Thursday in Cleveland. The next window is Sunday against Houston.