Cowboys' Draft Haul Boosts Defense

On April 25th, the Dallas Cowboys came out swinging on day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft,

turning heads with some slick trades that loaded up their defense.

They jumped from pick number 12 to number 11 to snag Ohio State Safety Caleb Downs, a

guy who had just a 12% shot of falling that far.

Smart move since they weren't about to let him slip away.

Later in the first round, instead of standing padded number 20, they traded back with the

Eagles, grabbing UCF pass rusher Malachai Lawrence Plus.

Two extra fourth round picks.

That deal kept their draft capital high while adding a sack artist who fits perfect in

their scheme.

Fans and analysts are buzzing about how these moves shore up the secondary in front 7,

with Downs bringing elite ball skills from college and Lawrence's motor translating straight

to the pros.

It's got that ripple effect, boosting a unit that's been needing fresh blood.

They two kept the momentum rolling, as they dealt with the San Francisco 49ers for linebacker

D winters, then used the 90 second overall.

Pick on Michigan's J. Sean Barham, a 6 foot 3, 240 pound edge rusher who earned freshman

all-american honors back in 20.

22.

These halls position Dallas to compete now, blending young talent with proven traits that

could flip their fortunes on defense heading into training.