The 2014 DeMarcus Lawrence Trade: Dallas Paid Two Picks for a Decade-Long Defensive Anchor
Dallas sent picks 47 and 78 to Washington for No. 34 and selected DeMarcus Lawrence. Washington landed Trent Murphy and Spencer Long, but Lawrence became the defining player in the deal.
Dallas Cowboys Received
- pick 2014 2nd round pick (34th overall, DeMarcus Lawrence)
Washington Commanders Received
- pick 2014 2nd round pick (47th overall, Trent Murphy)
- pick 2014 3rd round pick (78th overall, Spencer Long)
Trade Summary
Dallas traded a second-round pick and a third-round pick to move up for DeMarcus Lawrence. Lawrence became a four-time Pro Bowler and a decade-long defensive cornerstone. Washington selected Trent Murphy and Spencer Long, two legitimate NFL contributors, so the return deserves more credit than its former C- grade even though Dallas landed the defining player.
Trade Analysis
What the Trade Actually Did
Dallas sent Washington the 47th and 78th picks in the 2014 draft to move up to No. 34. The Cowboys selected Boise State defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. Washington used the incoming picks on edge defender Trent Murphy and offensive lineman Spencer Long.
Why Dallas Paid the Premium
The Cowboys needed a pass rusher and believed Lawrence was one of the remaining players capable of filling that role at a high level. Moving up 13 spots in the second round cost an additional third-round pick, so this was not a cheap gamble. Dallas effectively concentrated two meaningful selections into one player.
What Lawrence Became
The move eventually produced a long-term defensive cornerstone. Lawrence developed into an All-Pro pass rusher, earned four Pro Bowl selections and remained a central part of the Dallas defensive front for more than a decade. His value was not limited to sack totals; the Cowboys consistently praised his run defense, pressure creation and edge-setting ability.
What Washington Received
Washington did convert both selections into legitimate NFL contributors. Murphy produced useful pass-rush seasons, while Long became a multi-year starting offensive lineman. That is a respectable return from a move down and makes this much better than a failed trade for Washington.
Why Dallas Still Won
The difference is ceiling and longevity. Dallas paid extra capital specifically to acquire a premium defender and received one. Lawrence became the best player in the deal and stayed important to the Cowboys through multiple coaching staffs and defensive systems.
Final Verdict
The Dallas Cowboys Win verdict is strong without making Washington's return look worthless. Washington got two useful professionals; Dallas got the player with the highest peak, longest franchise impact and most valuable defensive role.