The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear mission: fortify their defensive lineup and address key areas of need.
With the No. 11 overall pick, Dallas made a bold move by trading two fifth-round selections to move up one spot, ensuring they could draft standout safety Caleb Downs. Downs, who excelled at both Alabama and Ohio State, brings an elite combination of athleticism and versatility to the Cowboys secondary.
Later in the first round, holding the No. 23 pick, the Cowboys further strengthened their defensive front by selecting University of Central Florida defensive end Malachi Lawrence. Known for his explosive first step, Lawrence is poised to become a disruptive force off the edge. His presence will add depth and playmaking ability to a defensive line that has struggled in the past.
Here’s an in-depth look at the Cowboys’ 2026 NFL draft selections and the grades they earned for their picks.
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The 2026 NFL Draft Theater stage at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa. on April 23, 2026.
1 / 23Steel City ready for draft night as the NFL comes to PittsburghThe 2026 NFL Draft Theater stage at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa. on April 23, 2026.
The 2026 NFL Draft Theater stage at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa. on April 23, 2026.
NFL Draft grades by USA Today's Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz. Return for the latest grades as picks are made.
After several years of earning some draft-night scorn, Jerry Jones finally hit it big. He capitalizes on a tumble for Downs, who has a solid case to be considered a top-three player in this class. The two-time unanimous All-American can be the force against the run that Jones covets, but he more importantly can help cut down on the meltdowns in the secondary that plagued Dallas throughout last year. New coordinator Christian Parker also has a major weapon to deploy from the slot as he likes after the Cowboys sorely missed Jourdan Lewis after the nickel's departure the previous offseason.
After trading up to secure Downs, the Cowboys move back with their second selection and still secure a player who can further change the complexion of their defense. Lawrence went from potential sleeper during the pre-draft process to a main attraction. He offers the length and persistence to make a mark right away, though he can be somewhat boom-or-bust as a pass rusher. But this was a sensible step to bolster an edge group that still wasn't up to par.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cowboys 2026 NFL Draft picks: Grading Caleb Downs, Malachi Lawrence