The Dallas Cowboys sent a clear message at the Miami Hurricanes' Pro Day. Their heavy scouting presence in Florida signals a strong defensive focus for the upcoming NFL Draft.

The heavy Cowboys presence prompted Sports Illustrated analyst Randy Gurzi to outline the team's potential draft plan.

“That's not surprising given the Cowboys' need for defensive help. Miami currently has several defenders expected to be selected in the 2026 NFL draft, including two of the top pass rushers in the class.” Gurzi stated.

Gurzi discussed the first and foremost potential pick for the team, Rueben Bain Jr., who has recorded 54 tackles and 9.5 sacks in his last season.

According to NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe, the Cowboys’ HC Brian Schottenheimer, DC Christian Parker, and VP of player personnel Will McClay were in attendance, along with Hurricanes alumnus and Cowboys' legend Michael Irvin.

No doubt, the whole team kept an eye on the top Edge prospect of 2026. Even when Bain was asked about a possible selection by the Cowboys, he spoke highly of the possible opportunity.

“It’d be amazing. Any opportunity I can get, no matter where I’m playing, it’d be a blessing," Bain said. "I’ve already made myself familiar with the [stadium] grounds. It’d be an amazing opportunity.”

While the Cowboys hold the No. 12 pick, the ACC Defensive Player of the Year is expected to be drafted earlier in the top-5.

Gurzi also identified three other potential defensive picks for Dallas.

Other Potential Defensive Picks for the Cowboys

Akheem Mesidor, the defensive end and defensive tackle, could also be a target for the Dallas Cowboys, stated Randy Gurzi. 

In 2025, he recorded 63 tackles,17.5 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks, earning Second-Team All-Big 12 honors. But NFL analysts have also factored in his arm and foot injuries and age, making him a top-20 prospect.

Another prospect, according to Gurzi, could be Keionte Scott, the Cotton Bowl Classic defensive MVP, who is a top nickelback. He boosted his stock by running a 40-yard dash in the 4.3 range on Monday.

Last but not least comes Safety, Jakobe Thomas. He recorded 76 tackles and 3.5 sacks last season.

“Like Mesidor, he's an older prospect, but that could lead to him being selected later than his talent warrants,” Randy Gurzi further stated.

Dallas has shown their hand in Miami, but the No. 12 pick may not be enough to land its biggest prize. With defensive urgency mounting, the Cowboys now face a draft gamble that could define their 2026 season.

You can read more at the Dallas Cowboys Community!

Written by

Monika Khatai

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote