Cowboys Draft Jaishawn Barham: Speed & Toughness

On April 25, Dallas Cowboys just snag Gai Shan Barham from the University of Michigan in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

This 6'3", 240 lb. linebacker brings serious size and speed to their defense, the kind of guy who can line up anywhere and make plays.

He's versatile enough to play off the ball, rush the edge, or drop into coverage, adding that chess piece flexibility the Cowboys have been craving up.

Front. At Michigan, Barham balled out with explosive traits that scream upside. Fans and analysts are buzzing because his college tape shows real violence against the run and pass rush potential.

He racked up 98 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and a forced fumble over his career.

Proving, he can chase down, plays in space.

This move bolsters their front seven with young athleticism and death, perfect for special teams early and growing into a starter role.

It's not a surefire star like Michael Parsons, but third round value like this bets on tools that translate.

Barham feels the Cowboys need for speed and toughness right now, setting up a defense that could rotate heavy and hit hard as he develops.