The Dallas Cowboys are going into the 2026 NFL Draft with two first-round picks for the first time since 2012. As expected, they are projected to address their defensive gaps, and Christian Parker’s influence in identifying the right fit could be significant. 

CBS Sports and NFL Insider Jonathan Jones has reportedly given their take on how the new defensive coordinator Parker’s role is heavy this season.

"The influence new defensive coordinator Christian Parker will have on what the Cowboys do is significant, I'm told," staff writer Brandon Loree's X post stated. "...Jones believes Parker's hire is a coup for the team, and they are listening closely to what the first-time DC has to say about these prospects.”

According to dallasnews.com, Parker was brought in this offseason to fix Matt Eberflus' defense that struggled across the board, surrendering a franchise-record 511 points.

As soon as Christian Parker joined the Cowboys, he shifted the defense from 4-3 to 3-4, and the team needed players to back it up. With that in mind, the roster gap at linebacker remains a clear need.

The franchise is not leaving anything to chance. From a strong push in intent, including a solid presence at the Miami Hurricanes' pro day, the groundwork is already being laid.

The Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer even praised his DC by calling him “a superstar when it comes to the secondary" when he was recruited to be the defensive coordinator.

After missing out on players like Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby in the past, the Dallas Cowboys are expected to address their defensive needs in the draft, increasing the pressure on Christian Parker.

A prospect like Sonny Styles could be a strong fit to fill the linebacker gap, but the franchise may need to trade up for that to happen.

The Trade-Up Conundrum for the Dallas Cowboys

Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports also shared his thoughts on the Dallas Cowboys’ No. 20 pick in the first round.

“By the way, I do think the Cowboys pick twice in the first round next week. I know they are rumored to trade up from 12, and if they do go up, I don't see them sending away 20," Jones also said as per the X post. "This team is ready to add on defense, and Dallas doesn't select again until No. 92.”

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Dallas Cowboys to trade up with the Cleveland Browns for the No. 6 pick, packaging both of their first-round selections: No. 12 and No. 20, to secure linebacker prospect Sonny Styles.

Jonathan Jones’ perspective directly contradicts the widely discussed draft scenario, as he expects them to protect pick no. 20 still, with their next pick over 70 prospects away.

However, with Dallas continuing to monitor Sonny Styles as a potential target, the decision to address the linebacker gap will ultimately depend on the defensive coordinator’s call heading into the draft.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote