The Dallas Cowboys are still actively looking at options to improve the defense, per vice president Stephen Jones.

It may not be splash people have been anticipating since owner Jerry Jones mentioned he had talked to owner about trading for difference-making player to bolster the defense.

But Stephen Jones made it clear that the Cowboys are looking to add to the defense via free agency and/or a possible trade on his radio show on 105.3 The Fan on Friday.

“We’re always looking,” Jones said. “We’ve got several things that we’re considering right now, some of it trades, some of it signing guys, because a lot of these older players who still have treads on the tires can come in and help you. It may come in the form of a trade, it may come in the form of a veteran signing as you move into camp, because a lot of these veteran players a lot of times don’t like to go to the first part of training camp.”

“We’re far from done.”

Jones even took it a step further.

“I’d be surprised if the starting players on this defense don’t change over time,” Jones said. “We’re always looking to be better, we’ll continue to monitor this.”

Jones later added after the interview that “a local guy” could be in the mix.

Maxx Crosby, Von Miller, Jordyn Brooks?

Let the speculation begin.

But Stephen Jones made it clear to DLLS Cowboys that nothing is imminent, “nothing is on the front burner.”

As far guys who has caught his eye through through the first two days of camp practices, outside of the obvious like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, the first player Jones brought up was rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham, a third-round pick from Michigan.

“He’s doing a hell of a job out there,” Stephen Jones said to DLLS Cowboys. “He’s really getting some attention. He’s heavy handed. He’s strong. He’s serious-mind. Versatile. Just a football player.”

Jones also shouted out safety Caleb Downs and defensive end Malachi Lawrence, the team’s two 2026 first-round picks.

“Caleb goes without saying, and then Malachi is everything as advertised,” Jones said. “I’d say those three are, you know, as far as young guys now.”

Jones also pointed out his two big veterans on defense, edge rusher Rashan Gary, who was acquired in a trade with the Green Bay Packers at the start of free agency, and safety Jalen Thompson, whose $11 million annual salary on a three-year deal represents the team’s biggest free agent signing since 2012 when cornerback Brandon Carr got a five-year, $50 million deal.

“JT is doing every bit as advertised, it’s what what we paid for,” Jones said. “Rashan Gary’s a dog. He’s a stud.”