How likely is it Cowboys 3rd-round linebacker makes impact as rookie?
The Cowboys might have struck gold when they picked LB Jaishawn Barham in the 3rd round of the 2026 NFL draft, but history suggests patient approach.
The Dallas Cowboys are pinning a fair amount of hope on their rookie draft class to fill immediate needs in 2026. Their historically poor defense from a year ago needs major changes and Dallas only partially utilized free agency to make those changes. It’s clear rookies like linebacker Jaishawn Barham will be expected to contribute right away.
With Dee Winters and DeMarvion Overshown penciled in as starters at inside linebacker, the hope is Barham can carry a significant load as a regular contributor. Looking at the last two rookie classes is a great way to see how realistic those expectations are this season. Using PFF raw data and grades, we will look at how rookie linebackers have performed in the past.
We can see what rounds they were drafted, how well they played and how likely they are to be instant assets. Christian Parker spent a large chunk of the final #Cowboys rookie minicamp practice keyed in on coaching Jaishawn Barham. he and Scott Symons were heavy on the rookie.
pic. twitter. com/yzknNnqCcH — Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) May 2, 2026 2025 rookie LB class There were eight qualifying linebackers in the 2025 rookie class.