Dallas Cowboys new defensive coordinator Christian Parker recently dropped a pretty big hint as to one of the biggest offseason “needs” that will likely be addressed in order for him to implement the kind of scheme he envisions. That information was the importance of the nickel position for his defense, and the kind of player he would like to insert into that role.
The type of nickel player Parker seems to be describing is exactly what he had in Cooper DeJean the last couple of years with Philadelphia Eagles. DeJean has played an important role since entering the league, establishing himself as one of the more talented defensive backs in the entire league. It absolutely makes sense Dallas’ new defensive coordinator wants to find the same type of player for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys could choose to find that player in free agency, however, they’ll likely have to pay hefty price to do so. If they’re willing to open the pocketbook a little more this offseason though like they suggested, that shouldn’t be a problem if that’s the way they choose to go. The less costly route is utilizing the 2026 NFL Draft, where there could be numerous options available for them throughout the draft.
Today, we’re going to identify a few players who may be capable of playing that Cooper DeJean role for Christian Parker, and where there are currently ranked according to the Consensus Big Board as of right now.
Day 1 (Round 1)
- S Caleb Downs, Ohio State (8)
- CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson (21)
- S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo (34)
- S Cole Thieneman, Oregon (38)
Caleb Downs, Avieon Terrell, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, and Dillon Thieneman are all potential targets for them to play that Cooper DeJean role in Christian Parker’s defense. Downs of course is the ideal choice, but unless he slides or Dallas trades up, he’s likely long gone by the time they’re on the clock. McNeil-Warren and Thieneman could both in play for the Cowboys at 20 or in a trade down scenario. Both have the versatility Parker seems to be looking for in that nickel role, however, Thieneman has more experience playing in the slot. And, even at 5’11”, 180-pounds, Terrell’s inside/out versatility would make him a good fit as well.
Day 2 (Rounds 2-3)
- S Kamari Ramsey, USC (75)
- S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State (85)
- CB Treydan Stukes, Arizona (101)
- S Bud Clark, TCU (102)
Kamari Ramsey, Zakee Wheatley, Treydan Stukes, and Bud Clark are all intriguing Day 2 options, who could potentially play that Cooper DeJean role for the Cowboys, if they somehow acquire another second- or third-round pick. All three of them fit the criteria with experience playing from the slot, the box, and deep. Stukes has the most experience in the slot, playing predominately there at Arizona. Of the four though, Clark is someone to keep an eye on and who could be already on Dallas’ radar. He’s already become somewhat of a fan favorite around Cowboys Nation, and as a local prospect, he’s available to participate in “Dallas Day”.
Day 3 (Rounds 4-6)
- S Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina (109)
- CB Jadon Canady, Oregon (139)
- S VJ Payne, Kansas State (190)
- S Cole Wisniewski, Texas Tech (197)
Considering the depth of the 2026 draft class, the Cowboys still have some intriguing options on Day 3 to find a potential starter to play that Cooper DeJean role. Jalon Kilgore, Jadon Canady, VJ Payne, and Cole Wisniewski all seem to fit the prerequisites as versatile players capable of playing in the slot, in the box, or deep. Canady however would likely be regulated strictly to the slot. Payne could reunite with his former Kansas State head coach, Conor Riley, now Dallas’ OL coach. Having someone within the organization potentially in his corner, could give him a better chance of landing in Dallas after the draft.
Who are you targeting for the versatile nickel player role?
