The 2026 NFL Draft is less than two weeks away, and the Dallas Cowboys are in the thick of final preparations. With the clock ticking, speculation is heating up about how the team will navigate its picks. In our latest seven-round mock draft, we envision a scenario where the Cowboys aren't afraid to make bold moves to address critical needs, executing multiple trades to reshape their defense.

Before the draft even begins, Dallas could make a savvy move to solidify a glaring weakness. Having missed out on top linebackers in free agency, the team desperately needs a starter. Rather than gambling on a rookie, the Cowboys might opt for a proven veteran via trade. Enter Jordyn Brooks. The talented linebacker has been frequently linked to Dallas, and the rebuilding Miami Dolphins could be willing to part with him for the right price. In this projection, the Cowboys send picks 92 and 180 to Miami, instantly upgrading the heart of their defense with a reliable, starting-caliber player.

With the linebacker spot addressed, the focus then shifts to the premium pass rush and secondary talent available in the first round. Sitting at pick 12, Dallas might fear missing out on the elite defensive prospects. In a classic aggressive Jerry Jones move, the Cowboys could trade up to secure their guy. This mock has Dallas sending picks 1.12, 5.152, and a 2027 second-rounder to the New Orleans Saints to move up to the 8th overall selection.

The target? Dynamic pass rusher Rueben Bain Jr. With top defenders like Arvell Reese and Caleb Downs off the board, Bain represents the high-impact, immediate contributor the Cowboys' defense craves. While he comes with some development questions, his potential to terrorize quarterbacks is undeniable. Securing him would be a statement that Dallas is prioritizing a defensive resurgence, giving fans a new star to rally behind and a fresh jersey to add to their collection.