The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books. The Dallas Cowboys added seven new rookies, and one veteran that we\u2019re counting here.<\/p>\n
1-11: Caleb Downs, safety, Ohio State<\/p>\n
Cowboys fans were dreaming of Caleb Downs, but it was hard to really believe they would get him. They got him. The perfect match for the nickel guy in Christian Parker\u2019s new defense. They had to spend a couple of fifth-round picks to move up one spot, but well worth the price, especially after what they did next.<\/p>\n
Caleb Downs drafted 11th overall<\/a><\/p>\n Caleb Downs defensive impact<\/a><\/p>\n Caleb Downs elevates all parts of the defense<\/a><\/p>\n Caleb Downs social media reaction<\/a><\/p>\n 1-23: Malachi Lawrence, Edge, UCF<\/p>\n With their second pick in the first round, the Cowboys traded back three spots and picked up two fourth-round picks. They actually improved their traded fifths and into fourths. With the pick they took Malachi Lawrence, a traits-heavy edge pass rusher who will be tasked with chasing around the NFC East\u2019s mobile quarterbacks.<\/p>\n Malachi Lawrence drafted 23rd overall<\/a><\/p>\n Malachi Lawrence impact on defense<\/a><\/p>\n Malachi Lawrence social media reaction<\/a><\/p>\n Malachi Lawrence draft grade<\/a><\/p>\n 3-92: Jaishawn Barham, LB\/Edge, Michigan<\/p>\n The Cowboys were determined to add more speed and athleticism to their defense, and Jaishawn Barham fits the bill. He\u2019ll start as an off-ball linebacker but should also see time at the edge. He\u2019s a hybrid who helps solve the linebacker issue. Christian Parker loves versatility. He wants to hunt the mismatches.<\/p>\n Jaishawn Barham drafted 92nd overall<\/a><\/p>\n Jaishawn Barham impact on defense<\/a><\/p>\n Jaishawn Barham social media reaction<\/a><\/p>\n Jaishawn Barham draft grade<\/a><\/p>\n 4-112: Drew Shelton, OT, Penn State<\/p>\n We talked about a backup swing tackle being a need with the shaky performances of Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele recently. The Cowboys agreed and went out and got an experienced starter at Penn State who could be in the mix for a starter\u2019s spot down the line. This year, he likely fills the swing tackle role.<\/p>\n Drew Shelton drafted at pick 112<\/a><\/p>\n Drew Shelton role in the offense<\/a><\/p>\n 4-114: Devin Moore, CB, Florida<\/p>\n It was a given that the Cowboys were going to draft a corner at some point given the issues at the position. DaRon Bland\u2019s injury and Shavon Revel struggling so far meant competition was needed. Moore is a tall corner with good ball tracking skills. His issue has been injuries. If he stays healthy he has a chance to contribute.<\/p>\n Devin Moore drafted at pick 114<\/a><\/p>\n Devin Moore impact on the defense<\/a><\/p>\n 4-137: LT Overton, DL, Alabama<\/p>\n Overton is kind of a tweener between an edge\/DE and a DT. The Cowboys are prioritizing both pass rush and run defense in their defensive makeover and Overton is tough, strong player who won\u2019t wow with the pass rush, but can anchor down on the edge. He figures to line up in multiple places along the line and provide power and push when needed.<\/p>\n LT Overton drafted at pick 137<\/a><\/p>\n LT Overton role on defense<\/a><\/p>\n 5-152: TRADE: Dee Winters, LB, 49ers<\/p>\n This isn\u2019t technically a draft pick, but it sure feels like it. Dallas added another fast piece to their defense with linebacker Dee Winters, who they got for their fifth-round pick. He has 27 starts in the NFL over three years, including all 17 games for the 49ers last year. He\u2019s a tested veteran who improves the linebacker room.<\/p>\n Dee Winters trade from 49ers<\/a><\/p>\n Dee Winters impact on defense<\/a><\/p>\n 7-218: Anthony Smith, WR, East Carolina<\/p>\n The Cowboys finished off their draft by going to the offensive side of the ball. Anthony Smith is a fast receiver who began his career at NC State before finishing at East Carolina. This guy has athletic traits and is the kind of flier you take this late in the draft.<\/p>\n Anthony Smith drafted at pick 218<\/a><\/p>\n