The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 NFL Draft with two first-round picks for the first time since 2008, creating a pivotal opportunity to rebuild a defense that allowed the most points in franchise history. With Christian Parker now installed as defensive coordinator, the front office can target players who fit his scheme.
The draft runs April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
Cowboys 2026 Draft Capital
| Round | Pick | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 12 | Cowboys own pick |
| 1 | 20 | From Packers (Micah Parsons trade) |
| 2 | — | None |
| 3 | — | None |
| 4 | ~112 | Cowboys own pick |
| 5 | TBD | Potential compensatory picks |
| 6 | — | Traded (Jordan Phillips deal) |
| 7 | TBD | From Chiefs (Peyton Hendershot trade) |
Dallas has no picks in Rounds 2, 3, or 6—making the two first-rounders even more critical.
Team Needs
Tier 1: Immediate Starters Needed
Cornerback
Trevon Diggs is gone. DaRon Bland faces another offseason surgery with long-term durability questions. Shavon Revel Jr. struggled as a rookie. The Cowboys allowed the worst pass defense in the league in 2025, and it wasn’t close.
Stephen Jones has publicly acknowledged the secondary as a top priority.
Edge Rusher
The Micah Parsons trade and Marshawn Kneeland’s tragic death left massive holes. Donovan Ezeiruaku showed flashes as a rookie but needs a running mate. Dante Fowler Jr., Sam Williams, and Jadeveon Clowney are all free agents or on expiring deals.
Dallas generated pressure at times in 2025, but without a true closer, coverage breakdowns erased any advantage.
Tier 2: Significant Upgrades Needed
Linebacker
The position was a mess in 2025. Dallas needs speed, instincts, and leadership in the middle of the defense. The 2026 class is deep at linebacker, making it a realistic Day 1 target.
Safety
Donovan Wilson is a free agent. Malik Hooker enters the final year of his deal and could be a cap casualty. Neither played to their potential in 2025. If Ohio State’s Caleb Downs—the consensus top safety—slides, Dallas should pounce.
Tier 3: Depth/Value Picks
Offensive Line
Terence Steele could be released to save $8-14M. Even with Tyler Booker and Ajani Cornelius developing, the Cowboys may need to add competition at tackle.
Prospects to Watch
Names consistently linked to Dallas in mock drafts:
Edge Rushers
- Keldric Faulk, Auburn — Balanced pass rusher with elite run defense
- David Bailey, Texas Tech — Explosive, projected top-10 talent
- Akheem Mesidor, Miami — National championship pedigree, high-ceiling athlete
- Rueben Bain Jr., Miami — High motor, consistent pressure
Cornerbacks
- Mansoor Delane, LSU — Consistent, versatile, potential CB1
- Avieon Terrell, Clemson — Athletic, fits press-man scheme
- Colton Hood, Tennessee — Fast riser, Day 1 starter potential
Linebackers
- CJ Allen, Georgia — Physical leader, smart, reliable
- Sonny Styles, Ohio State — Former safety, elite speed and range
- Jake Golday — Size and skill to start immediately
Safeties
- Caleb Downs, Ohio State — Consensus top safety, unlikely to fall to 12
- Zakee Wheatley, Penn State — Versatile, can play box or deep
Draft Day Trades Already Made
Picks Dallas has dealt away from their 2026 allocation:
| Pick | Trade |
|---|---|
| 6th round | Sent to Giants in Jordan Phillips trade (2024) |
| 7th round (own) | Sent to Bills in Kaiir Elam trade (2025) |
Picks Dallas has acquired:
| Pick | Trade |
|---|---|
| 1st round (20) | From Packers in Micah Parsons trade |
| 7th round | From Chiefs in Peyton Hendershot trade (2024) |
Key Dates
- April 23: Round 1
- April 24: Rounds 2-3 (Cowboys have no picks)
- April 25: Rounds 4-7
What Happens Next
This page will be updated as free agency reshapes the roster, combine testing reveals new information, and the draft board crystallizes. After the draft concludes, pick-by-pick analysis will replace the prospect and needs sections.
Last updated: January 27, 2026