News has dropped that quarterback Dak Prescott will go on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, so the Cowboys are adding firepower to their offense.

In a stunning move, per Adam Schefter, the Cowboys traded for wide receiver Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers. It is reported that the Cowboys will get Mingo and a seventh-round pick in exchange for a fourth-round pick.

With Prescott out for at least four games, this is a clear example of just how serious Dallas is about pivoting quickly to remain competitive. In the case of Carolina, this trade signals a continued focus on the rebuilding process, where the acquisition of value and depth is paramount.

Panthers are trading WR Jonathan Mingo to the Cowboys, per sources.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 5, 2024

The Situation Without Dak Prescott in Dallas

Dak Prescott’s injury put the Cowboys in a tough spot. Now at 3-5, Dallas is fighting to hang onto playoff hopes. Without Prescott, Cooper Rush and Trey Lance will spearhead the offense through the next several games. The trade for Jonathan Mingo tells the story of just how seriously the Cowboys are taking keeping their offense productive without Prescott, adding another weapon downfield for Rush and Lance.

The speed and flexibility that Mingo brings to the Cowboys receiving corps is what makes him an NFL Draft standout in 2023. He can stretch the field and make yards after the catch, thus giving the Cowboys new options on offense. As a big-bodied receiver with good hands, Mingo should be a nice complement to CeeDee Lamb, Michael Gallup, and Brandin Cooks because he can permit the Cowboys to achieve mismatches in the secondary and open up the passing game.

What Mingo Brings to Dallas

Mingo is going to prove important in Dallas, particularly as the Cowboys move into a world without Prescott. Quick, solid route-runner with good physicality, Mingo can be counted on to be a guy that Rush and Lance can count on during crunch time. His general knowledge of several route concepts means he can be adaptable to the Cowboy playbook, which potentially could allow the team to get creative with offensive formations.

The Cowboys will need separation and contested catches on their routes if they want to stay competitive without Prescott, and Mingo happens to possess exactly that. He has flashed in Carolina, but perhaps a fresh start is what he needs in Dallas to kickstart a career. For a team that desperately needs options and consistency on offense, maybe this is the right signing at the right time.

Panthers Remain in Rebuilding Mode

With the Panthers, meanwhile, this represents the latest in what’s been a never-ending line of deals to keep their rebuild churning. At 1-7, Carolina made it clear that the restructurings had begun, punting wide receiver Diontae Johnson off to the Ravens earlier this season. Trading away Mingo provides the opportunity for the Panthers to begin reshaping their roster with younger players and draft assets that best suit their long-term vision. By trading away Mingo, Carolina opens up the door to potential picks or assets later sliding in to further fortify their rebuilding process. 

The Panthers have invested heavily in young talent and are looking for players who can develop along with the team over time. As such, though it may be a loss to the receiving unit, the Panthers are at a juncture where accruing value takes precedence. This move enables them to continue building a foundation for the future, and the draft capital or assets they get in return could prove vital as the Panthers look to get a competitive roster down the line.