Introducing your Cowboys draft class of 2026

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 23: Caleb Downs of Ohio State poses for a photo after being selected 11th overall by the Dallas Cowboys during Round One of the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium on April 23, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images) | Getty Images The 2026 NFL Draft is in the books. The Dallas Cowboys added seven new rookies, and one veteran that we’re counting here.

1-11: Caleb Downs, safety, Ohio State 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’s 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. Caleb Downs drafted 11th overall Caleb Downs defensive impact Caleb Downs elevates all parts of the defense Caleb Downs social media reaction Caleb downs draft grade 1-23: Malachi Lawrence, Edge, UCF 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’s mobile quarterbacks. Malachi Lawrence drafted 23rd overall Malachi Lawrence impact on defense Malachi Lawrence social media reaction Malachi Lawrence draft grade 3-92: Jaishawn Barham, LB/Edge, Michigan The Cowboys were determined to add more speed and athleticism to their defense, and Jaishawn Barham fits the bill. He’ll start as an off-ball linebacker but should also see time at the edge.