Top 5 tight end prospects for Cowboys to consider in 2026 draft
The top five tight ends from the 2026 NFL draft are mostly receiving threats, with not much in-line options early on.
While the defense is clearly the top priority, the Dallas Cowboys do have room for improvement on offense. And if they go in that direction during the 2026 NFL Draft, tight end could be a high priority. Jake Ferguson is a reliable target for QB Dak Prescott, but adds very few explosive plays.
Ferguson ranked 22nd amongst tight ends in Explosive Play Rating (EPX) and had only two explosive plays on the year. The tight end room was at the bottom of the league in yards per catch and yards per route run. That makes the top-five tight end prospects something fans should keep an eye on, just in case.
Adding an explosive receiving tight end could be important. Still, with Luke Schoonmaker on the final year of his rookie deal and an out from Ferguson’s deal available after the season, the Cowboys could be open to any of these talents. TE Justin Joly, NC State Justin Joly is an undersized tight end at only 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds, but he has a great mind for the game that makes him tough to stop as an underneath pass catcher.
He doesn’t use size or quick-twitch movements to create separation. Instead, he thrives on understanding when to make his breaks and set them up. He finds holes in zone coverage and is comfortable making catches in traffic.