The Dallas Cowboys enter the NFL Draft 2026 with clear urgency to fix their defense after a historically poor 2025 season. Their defense allowed over 30 points per game, ranking dead last in the league.

The Boys have an opportunity to turn that around, but only if they use their draft picks wisely.

Dallas holds a total of eight picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. They hold two first-round selections at No.12 and No.20.

In the third round, they have a No.92. No.112 at fourth and three fifth rounders: No. 152, 177 and 180. In the last round, they have the No.218 pick.

The Cowboys have made some moves defensively this season. The team signed safeties Jalen Thompson and P. J. Locke. And cornerbacks Cobie Durant and Derion Kendrick, and acquired Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers.

They also retained RB Javonte Williams, franchise tagged George Pickens and re-signed Brandon Aubrey for a historical four-year, $28 million deal.

At No.12, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, LB Sonny Styles, CB Mansoor Delane, EDGE Rueben Bain Jr, and Safety Dillon Thieneman are the top five projected picks of the Cowboys, per Garrett Podell of CBS Sports.

Caleb Downs is projected as a top target for the Cowboys, bringing a career production of 257 tackles and six interceptions across three seasons.

And if he is off the board, Sonny Styles becomes a strong alternative, bringing in versatility after transitioning from safety to linebacker.

Oregon Ducks Safety Dillon Thieneman is projected as a safety pick next to Downs, though he is not expected to be on board till No.20, per Podell.

LSU Tigers CB Mansoor Delane brings in lockdown ability to the corner. While Miami Hurricanes edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. brings in significant pass rush production, proven by his honor of the Ted Hendricks Award.

Apart from that, the Cowboys have another option to bolster their defense with their second first-round pick - No.20.

The Dallas Cowboys' Potential Picks At No.20

According to Podell, Auburn Tigers edge rusher Keldric Faulk is the most projected name linked to this slot. His 2025 performance of two sacks and 29 tackles shows less promise.

Miami Hurricanes EDGE Akheem Mesidor led the ACC with 12.5 sacks, and according to Podell, he is projected to be a “plug-and-play starter.”

Tennessee Volunteers CB Colton Hood stands out, offering rare versatility, with impact plays on both defense and returns

There is another option at linebacker: Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez. He is a “turnover machine” according to Podell.

Texas A&M University EDGE Cashius Howell brings in proven pass rush production with 11.5 sacks in the 2025 season, positioning him as an immediate contributor.

With the Cowboys' owner, Jerry Jones, promising to entertain trading up or down, this draft is expected to be central to addressing the defensive shortcomings.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at the Dallas Cowboys Community.

Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore