The Dallas Cowboys went all-in on defense during the 2026 NFL Draft, and according to ESPN's Matt Miller, they found a gem in Round 3 that could pay huge dividends. With a clear focus on shoring up the defensive side of the ball, the Cowboys opened by selecting safety Caleb Downs and edge rusher Malachi Lawrence in the first round. But it was their third-round pick that has draft analysts buzzing.
After trading back from No. 20 to No. 23 with the Philadelphia Eagles—picking up extra fourth-round compensation in the process—Dallas stayed put and grabbed Michigan's Jaishawn Barham. Miller was quick to praise the move, ranking Barham as the 30th best pick of the entire draft. In a class loaded with talent, that's high praise for a player taken at the back end of Round 3.
Barham's journey to the NFL is a testament to his versatility. Originally a linebacker at Michigan, he made the switch to edge rusher in 2025 and immediately flourished under former NFL defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. After the position change in Week 3, Barham exploded for 10 tackles for loss and four sacks, showcasing the kind of disruptive play that makes offensive coordinators lose sleep.
His 2025 stat line tells the story: 32 tackles, a career-high 10 tackles for loss, four sacks, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble. On film, Barham's first-step quickness off the line is eye-catching, and his ability to chase down plays from the backside is a rare trait. But what really sets him apart is his football IQ—three years of experience as a linebacker means he reads plays instinctively, fills gaps with authority, and delivers violent tackles that set the tone for a defense.
Imagine the Cowboys' nickel package with Caleb Downs patrolling the box and Barham coming off the edge. That's a nightmare for opposing offenses. While Barham will likely start as an inside linebacker in Dallas, don't be surprised to see him in a hybrid role that lets him rush the passer on passing downs. For a team that values defensive versatility, this pick looks like a steal that could pay off for years to come.