Cowboys Trade Rumors: Taco Charlton Deal Discussed, 'Nothing Is Imminent'

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly shopping 2017 first-round pick and defensive end Taco Charlton, according to Ian Rapoport and Jane Slater of NFL.com. 

Per that report, the Cowboys have had "recent trade talks" and "while nothing is imminent, it could heat up this week. Charlton will be inactive today." It's the second straight week Charlton has been a healthy scratch. 

Charlton, 24, appeared in all 16 games for the Cowboys during his rookie season but failed to impress, registering just 19 tackles, three sacks and a forced fumble. Last season he made even less of an impression, recording just one sack in 11 games.

And with DeMarcus Lawrence, Tyrone Crawford, Kerry Hyder and Dorance Armstrong Jr. currently ahead of him on the depth chart—and Robert Quinn back from suspension in Week 3—Charlton became expendable.

The Cowboys aren't alone in wanting to cut ties. According to Slater, "Charlton made it clear in the offseason he wanted a trade. I'm told he was part of discussions ahead of preseason cuts but nothing came of it. What is clear is both sides want a fresh start."

Charlton tweeted this cryptic message on Thursday as trade rumors swirled:

So his days are clearly numbered in Dallas. The question is what sort of return the team might get for the 2017 first-rounder.

The Cowboys have been linked to Miami Dolphins defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick, who has been given permission by the team to seek a trade, though it's unknown if the Dolphins would have any interest in Charlton as part of a prospective trade package. Given his mediocre days in Dallas, it's unlikely he'd be the primary trade chip the Cowboys would offer.