Cowboys Draft & Free Agency: Addressing Top Needs

On April 29th, over a month ago, we ranked the Cowboys' biggest roster holes after early free agency.

Top needs were inside linebacker, edge rusher, offensive tackle, cornerback, wide receiver, and defensive line.

Fast forward passed the 2026 NFL draft, undrafted free agents, and trades.

Dallas hit six of those top spots with their seven picks, showing.

They agreed on the priorities.

They traded for San Francisco's D-Winter's to bolster inside linebacker right away,

and shifted rookie J. Sean Barram inside too.

Caleb Downes, their safety pick, slides to nickel corner, checking that box partially.

The updated knees list barely budged much wide receiver, climbed a spot, running back and tied in,

joined the mix. While defensive line dropped too, fans are buzzing about the draft halls,

but impact feels mixed so far.

Edge rusher added Malachi Lawrence for depth, yet no game-changer joins Donovan as they were

waku, and Rashan Gary Coaches got a scheme pressure heavy.

Wide receiver got late-round Anthony Smith and bets like Marques Valdez-Skantling,

but depth passed the top guy stay shaky if George Pickens falters.

Cornerback signed Darian Kendrick, and drafted Devon Moore for competition,

easing worries with Doran Blan's foot, and Shavon revels greenness.

Safety renovated big, with downs alongside Jalen Thompson and PJ Locke,

Malik Loker and Marquesi Bell fighting for spots now.

Defensive line rounded out via Jonathan Bullard and LT Overton, interior line locks in

starters and backups. Running back and tied in need more popwatching for Vettad's pre-camp,

especially behind Javante Williams and Jake Ferguson.

Proof comes in training camp as these rookies, and trades gel or flop,

setting the tone for a 2026 push.