The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books. The Dallas Cowboys added seven new rookies, and one veteran that we’re counting here.
1-11: Caleb Downs, safety, Ohio State
Cowboys fans were dreaming of Caleb Downs, but it was hard to really believe they would get him. They got him. The perfect match for the nickel guy in Christian Parker’s new defense. They had to spend a couple of fifth-round picks to move up one spot, but well worth the price, especially after what they did next.
Caleb Downs drafted 11th overall
Caleb
Downs elevates all parts of the defense
Caleb Downs social media reaction
1-23: Malachi Lawrence, Edge, UCF
With their second pick in the first round, the Cowboys traded back three spots and picked up two fourth-round picks. They actually improved their traded fifths and into fourths. With the pick they took Malachi Lawrence, a traits-heavy edge pass rusher who will be tasked with chasing around the NFC East’s mobile quarterbacks.
Malachi Lawrence drafted 23rd overall
Malachi Lawrence impact on defense
Malachi Lawrence social media reaction
3-92: Jaishawn Barham, LB/Edge, Michigan
The Cowboys were determined to add more speed and athleticism to their defense, and Jaishawn Barham fits the bill. He’ll start as an off-ball linebacker but should also see time at the edge. He’s a hybrid who helps solve the linebacker issue. Christian Parker loves versatility. He wants to hunt the mismatches.
Jaishawn Barham drafted 92nd overall
Jaishawn Barham impact on defense
Jaishawn Barham social media reaction
4-112: Drew Shelton, OT, Penn State
We talked about a backup swing tackle being a need with the shaky performances of Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele recently. The Cowboys agreed and went out and got an experienced starter at Penn State who could be in the mix for a starter’s spot down the line. This year, he likely fills the swing tackle role.
Drew Shelton drafted at pick 112
Drew Shelton role in the offense
4-114: Devin Moore, CB, Florida
It was a given that the Cowboys were going to draft a corner at some point given the issues at the position. DaRon Bland’s injury and Shavon Revel struggling so far meant competition was needed. Moore is a tall corner with good ball tracking skills. His issue has been injuries. If he stays healthy he has a chance to contribute.
Devin Moore drafted at pick 114
Devin Moore impact on the defense
4-137: LT Overton, DL, Alabama
Overton is kind of a tweener between an edge/DE and a DT. The Cowboys are prioritizing both pass rush and run defense in their defensive makeover and Overton is tough, strong player who won’t wow with the pass rush, but can anchor down on the edge. He figures to line up in multiple places along the line and provide power and push when needed.
LT Overton drafted at pick 137
5-152: TRADE: Dee Winters, LB, 49ers
This isn’t technically a draft pick, but it sure feels like it. Dallas added another fast piece to their defense with linebacker Dee Winters, who they got for their fifth-round pick. He has 27 starts in the NFL over three years, including all 17 games for the 49ers last year. He’s a tested veteran who improves the linebacker room.
7-218: Anthony Smith, WR, East Carolina
The Cowboys finished off their draft by going to the offensive side of the ball. Anthony Smith is a fast receiver who began his career at NC State before finishing at East Carolina. This guy has athletic traits and is the kind of flier you take this late in the draft.
Anthony Smith drafted at pick 218
Anthony Smith impact on the offense
Are the Cowboys now Super Bowl bound? No? Let us know in the comments.
You can check the latest odds for teams and the Super Bowl over at FanDuel.
