The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2026 NFL Draft with serious doubts around their defence. But owner Jerry Jones’ decisions have quickly begun to change the league's view of the team. 

According to Jason La Canfora of FanSided, league executives believe the Cowboys’ draft approach clearly showed intent and led to defensive improvement.

“I really like what they both did in the draft,” one longtime NFL personnel evaluator told La Canfora. “They had to address their defense in big way, and they did. There was an intent to what they did. I think they both got a lot better.”

The Cowboys had a strong offense last season, led by Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and a solid offensive line. But their defense struggled, ranking dead last in points allowed (30.05 per game).

The team tried to fix these problems through free agency and the draft. They added players like Rashan Gary, Jalen Thompson, and Cobie Durant, and also drafted Caleb Downs after moving up one spot.

Jaishawn Barham and Dee Winters were also brought in as part of the defensive rebuild, with Downs seen as one of the best players in the class. 

The moves are being seen as a planned rebuild, and the front office feels good about it.

Stephen Jones Feels Good About Cowboys’ Return From Parsons Trade 

Executive vice president of the Cowboys, Stephen Jones, admitted Dallas feels “really good” about the move after using the trade assets to add several new defensive pieces across the roster. 

“We feel really good about it. Obviously, much respect for Micah and what he stands for and how he plays and the caliber of player he is, but at the same time we feel good about what we've added via that trade,” Jones said. 

Jones also praised the leadership qualities of the team’s new additions, especially Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, and Caleb Downs.

“You look at a guy like Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark, they're alpha players who not only are great players on the field, but they're leaders in the meeting room,” Jones added. “I just feel very optimistic that we have the right pieces in place to go out there."

Dallas looks confident with its aggressive offseason moves to yield better results in the 2026 season. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments. 

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Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore