David Bailey has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in NFL trade rumors ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Texas Tech pass rusher is widely projected as a top-five pick, and teams outside that range are now exploring aggressive moves to get him.The Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys are two of those teams. Both need a true finisher on defense. Both have been linked to potential trade-up scenarios. And with Bailey expected to come off the board early, the race is already taking shape.
NFL trade rumors: Chiefs and Cowboys preparing aggressive move for elite defensive star ahead of 2026 Draft
Start with Kansas City. The Chiefs hold picks No. 9 and No. 29, which gives them flexibility to build a strong trade package. General manager Brett Veach has made this kind of a move before. In 2017, the Chiefs traded up to draft Patrick Mahomes, a decision that reshaped the franchise.Also, analyst Bill Barnwell said on ESPN: “At No. 9, the Chiefs could stay put and hope a premium player falls. But with extra capital, this might be the time for Brett Veach to go big.”That approach fits their current roster. Kansas City created pressure last season, but did not finish enough plays. Quarterbacks escaped too often, especially in key moments. That is where a player like Bailey makes a difference. He doesn’t just pressurize. He closes.Now shift to Dallas. The Cowboys face a similar issue, but with more urgency. They cannot land a top-five talent without moving up in the draft. That is why trade discussions about them have picked up.Dallas generated pressure last season but struggled to convert it into sacks. They need a true edge presence who can win quickly and finish plays. Adding a player from that top tier would change how their entire defense operates.There is also history. Dallas has never hesitated to make bold draft-day moves. Team decision-makers indicated during the 2026 offseason that they are open to trading up if the right opportunity arises.Now, let us take a closer look. Both the Kansas City Chiefs and the Dallas Cowboys are chasing the same target profile, in the same draft range, at the same time. That is what turns the draft into an actual race.So, these rumors are not just talk. David Bailey sits right at the center of it. And if both teams want him, one of them will have to move fast and pay the price.