Dallas, TX – April 27, 2025 —
The Dallas Cowboys could be gearing up for a major splash.
Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the Cowboys are actively exploring a blockbuster trade for Carolina Panthers wide receiver Diontae Johnson — a move that could dramatically reshape Dak Prescott’s arsenal.
The Deal in the Works
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Cowboys would receive:
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WR Diontae Johnson
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2025 seventh-round pick (No. 240)
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Panthers would receive:
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2025 third-round pick (No. 95)
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2026 fifth-round pick
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Negotiations are ongoing, but momentum is reportedly building.
Dallas sees Johnson as the perfect WR2/WR1B option to pair with CeeDee Lamb, easing the pressure on Lamb and giving Mike McCarthy’s offense a major boost.

Why Diontae Johnson?
At 28 years old, Johnson still flashes elite quickness and route-running:
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30 catches, 357 yards, 3 TDs in 2024 (PFF grade 74.6)
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90% separation rate — among the NFL’s best
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4.4-second 40-yard dash speed
After losing Noah Brown and dealing with Michael Gallup’s decline, the Cowboys badly need a proven separator to complement Lamb and Brandin Cooks.
“Diontae would be a nightmare for defenses when Lamb is drawing doubles,” one NFC scout told The Sporting News.
Financial Fit
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Johnson is owed $7 million in 2025 — the final year of his $36.7 million contract (Spotrac).
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Cowboys currently have limited cap space but could restructure existing deals (e.g., Zack Martin, DeMarcus Lawrence) to fit Johnson’s manageable hit.
Given the wide receiver market explosion, adding a former Pro Bowler at that price is a steal.
Bigger Picture: All-In for 2025
The Cowboys are tired of early playoff exits.
Bringing in Diontae Johnson would signal a clear message:
They’re not settling for another Divisional Round heartbreak.
With CeeDee Lamb, Brandin Cooks, Diontae Johnson, and Jake Ferguson at tight end, Dak Prescott would have the deepest receiving corps of his career.
GM Jerry Jones reportedly told associates: “We’re chasing trophies, not stats.”
Meanwhile, the Panthers — entering a full rebuild around Xavier Legette — are open to moving veterans like Johnson for draft capital.
Bottom Line
Adding Diontae Johnson could be the final piece that unlocks the Cowboys’ offense and finally pushes them over the top.
Cowboys Nation, are you ready to see No. 5 in silver and blue?
Stay tuned — this saga could move fast.
