FRISCO, Texas – As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a critical juncture regarding the future of wide receiver Jonathan Mingo. Rumors of a potential trade involving the 24-year-old are intensifying, sparking questions among fans and analysts about the team’s roster-building strategy.
Mingo’s Brief Stint in Dallas
Jonathan Mingo, acquired from the Carolina Panthers before the 2024 trade deadline in a swap that sent a 2025 fourth-round pick to Carolina in exchange for Mingo and a seventh-round pick, arrived with hopes of bolstering the Cowboys’ offense. Dallas saw potential in the former second-round pick (No. 39 overall) from the 2023 NFL Draft, banking on his upside to elevate their receiving corps.
However, Mingo’s tenure in Dallas has fallen short of expectations. In eight games with the Cowboys during the 2024 season, he recorded just five receptions for 46 yards—a modest output compared to the hype surrounding his arrival. Part of the struggle has been attributed to instability at the quarterback position, with Cooper Rush failing to establish a consistent connection with Mingo while Dak Prescott was sidelined by injury.
Despite the challenges, Mingo’s physical attributes (6’2”, 220 lbs) and route-running ability, which allow him to create separation, have kept him in the conversation. Yet, his inconsistency in securing catches and failure to score a touchdown in 24 NFL games have made him a polarizing figure.
Trade Rumors and Roster Implications
Recent reports suggest the Cowboys are exploring the possibility of trading Mingo as part of a broader effort to restructure their roster for the 2025 season. This move is not necessarily a reflection of dissatisfaction with Mingo’s performance but rather a strategic decision to optimize resources and address gaps in the lineup.
With the addition of George Pickens, another wide receiver acquired via trade in the past six months, Dallas’ receiving corps is becoming crowded. CeeDee Lamb remains the unquestioned centerpiece, while Jalen Tolbert and KaVontae Turpin are also vying for roles. This depth has left Mingo’s place in the pecking order uncertain, especially as he was expected to serve as a WR2 but has yet to deliver at that level.
Additionally, the loss of a 2025 fourth-round pick (from the Mingo trade) has put pressure on the Cowboys, particularly as they look to address needs at positions like running back. Analysts suggest that trading Mingo could help Dallas recoup draft capital or clear space for veteran free-agent signings, such as Keenan Allen or even a reunion with Amari Cooper.
Reactions from Fans and Experts
The trade rumors surrounding Mingo have sparked mixed reactions. Some fans argue that the Cowboys should remain patient with Mingo, especially since he hasn’t had the chance to play with Dak Prescott in a stable offensive system. Others view the acquisition of Mingo as a misstep, criticizing owner Jerry Jones for overpaying for a player who has yet to prove his worth.
Analysts are similarly skeptical. “The Cowboys took a gamble on Mingo’s potential, but if he can’t break out in the upcoming training camp, keeping him might be a waste,” a post on Blogging The Boys noted. “Dallas needs to act decisively to ensure they don’t miss opportunities to improve the roster.”
Mingo’s Future and the Cowboys’ Path Forward
With training camp in Oxnard on the horizon, Mingo will have a chance to prove himself under head coach Mike McCarthy and within Dak Prescott’s offensive system. A strong showing could cement his role as a key complement to CeeDee Lamb. Conversely, failing to make an impact could accelerate trade talks before the 2025 season kicks off.
The decision regarding Mingo is about more than just one player—it reflects the Cowboys’ broader philosophy on team-building. In a league as competitive as the NFL, where every move can impact Super Bowl aspirations, Dallas must carefully weigh the value of investing in long-term potential against the need for immediate improvement.
For now, Cowboys fans can only wait and hope that, whether Mingo stays or goes, the team makes the right call to propel “America’s Team” back to the top.