Kicking off with the Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft 2026, the team’s roster is in a state of rebuilding after a disappointing 2025 season. The current state of the team’s depth chart shows a mix of strengths and weaknesses, with a notable lack of depth at the quarterback position.
The Cowboys’ needs based on their 2025 season performance are evident, and the 2026 NFL Draft presents an opportunity to address these gaps. With a deep prospect pool, the Cowboys can target top players who align with their needs and playing style. In this mock draft, we’ll explore the team’s potential picks and discuss the top prospects for the Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Top Prospects for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching, and the Dallas Cowboys are eager to find the next stars to join their team. With a deep pool of talented players, the Cowboys will have several opportunities to address their needs and improve their roster. In this article, we will explore the top prospects in the 2026 draft class that the Cowboys could target.
The Top Five Prospects for the Dallas Cowboys
The following five prospects are among the most highly touted players in the 2026 draft class, and each has qualities and skills that make them valuable to the Cowboys.
In this article, we will examine the strengths and weaknesses of each prospect, as well as how they align with the team’s needs and playing style.
C.J. Stroud, Quarterback – Ohio State
- Stroud is a dynamic quarterback with a strong arm and quick release.
- He is a natural leader who has shown the ability to perform under pressure.
- Stroud’s accuracy and decision-making have improved significantly since his freshman year.
Stroud is an excellent fit for the Cowboys, who are in need of a reliable quarterback to lead their offense. He has the arm talent and athleticism to make all the necessary throws and reads.
However, there are some concerns about Stroud’s durability, as he has struggled with injuries in the past. Additionally, some scouts have raised concerns about his decision-making, suggesting that he can be overly reliant on his arm and may not use his legs as effectively as some other quarterbacks.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Wide Receiver – Ohio State
- Smith-Njigba is a physical wide receiver with the size and strength to dominate in traffic.
- He has shown the ability to create separation at the line of scrimmage and make big plays down the field.
- Smith-Njigba is a polished route-runner who has a clear understanding of the game.
The Cowboys would love to add a physical presence to their receiving corps, and Smith-Njigba fits the bill. He has the size and strength to create mismatches and make plays in the red zone.
However, some scouts have raised concerns about Smith-Njigba’s speed, suggesting that he may not be able to separate from cornerbacks on the outside. Additionally, he has struggled with drops and consistency in his routes.
Will Anderson Jr., Linebacker – Alabama
- Anderson is an athletic linebacker who has the speed and agility to cover tight ends and running backs.
- He has shown the ability to rush the passer and make plays in the backfield.
- Anderson is a smart player who has a clear understanding of the game and can diagnose plays quickly.
The Cowboys could use a linebacker with Anderson’s skillset, as they often struggle to stop the run and create pressure on the quarterback. He is an excellent tackler and has the range to cover the entire field.
However, some scouts have raised concerns about Anderson’s size, suggesting that he may not have the strength to tackle larger backs to the ground. Additionally, he has struggled with consistency and production in his young career.
Paris Johnson Jr., Offensive Tackle – Ohio State
- Johnson is a dominant left tackle with the size, strength, and athleticism to protect the quarterback.
- He has shown the ability to create lane-blocking opportunities and seal the edge.
- Johnson is a smart player who has a clear understanding of the game and can read plays quickly.
The Cowboys would love to add a left tackle to their roster, and Johnson is the best option available. He has the size and strength to protect the quarterback and create opportunities in the running game.
However, some scouts have raised concerns about Johnson’s athleticism, suggesting that he may not be as nimble as some other tackles. Additionally, he has struggled with consistency and production in his young career.
Nick Saldiveri, Defensive Tackle – Penn State
- Saldiveri is a strong defensive tackle with the size and strength to occupy blockers.
- He has shown the ability to make plays in the backfield and disrupt the offense.
- Saldiveri is a smart player who has a clear understanding of the game and can diagnose plays quickly.
The Cowboys could use a strong defensive tackle to bolster their pass rush and stop the run. Saldiveri is an excellent fit, as he has the size and strength to occupy blockers and create opportunities for his teammates.
However, some scouts have raised concerns about Saldiveri’s athleticism, suggesting that he may not be as fast or agile as some other defensive tackles. Additionally, he has struggled with consistency and production in his young career.
Quarterback Options for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft
The Dallas Cowboys are at a critical juncture in their search for a long-term quarterback solution. After a tumultuous season and a plethora of injuries at the position, the team is in dire need of a quarterback who can stabilize the offense and lead them to success. This 2026 NFL Draft presents an opportunity for the Cowboys to address this pressing need and secure a quarterback of the future.
Top Quarterback Prospects in the 2026 Draft Class
In this year’s draft class, there are several talented quarterbacks who have garnered significant attention and attention. This list highlights some of the top quarterback prospects that the Cowboys may consider drafting in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Cameron Ward – The quarterback out of Washington State has garnered significant attention for his impressive arm talent and ability to stretch the field with his deep ball. Ward’s mobility and accuracy under pressure have made him a top prospect for many teams.
- Ethan Shards – Shards, a quarterback out of North Carolina State, has shown remarkable growth over the past few seasons, transforming himself from an athletic quarterback into a refined passer with accuracy and pocket presence. His ability to read defenses and lead his team effectively has made him a highly sought-after prospect.
- Bennett Christiansen – Christiansen, a quarterback out of Georgia, has built an impressive resume with his exceptional mechanics, ball security, and ability to read defenses. His impressive size and strength give him an edge in terms of physicality and ability to take hits.
- Julian Fink – Fink, a quarterback out of Oklahoma, has emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects in this year’s class with his incredible accuracy, poise, and decision-making skills. His experience playing in a high-powered offense at Oklahoma has prepared him for the demands of the NFL.
- Peter Kline – Kline, a transfer quarterback from Iowa to Kansas State, has shown significant improvement over the season, honing his skills as a pocket passer with exceptional accuracy and ball security. His poise under pressure has made him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a reliable quarterback.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Quarterback Prospect
Each of these quarterback prospects has unique strengths and weaknesses that make them attractive or less attractive to the Cowboys. Evaluating these strengths and weaknesses is key to determining which quarterback is the best fit for the team.
Cameron Ward: Strengths – Exceptional arm talent, impressive deep ball accuracy. Weaknesses – Limited experience as a starter, questionable decision-making skills.
Ethan Shards: Strengths – Exceptional growth as a quarterback, refined passer with accuracy and pocket presence. Weaknesses – Inconsistent mechanics, struggles with pressure.
Bennett Christiansen: Strengths – Exceptional size and strength, impressive mechanics, and ball security. Weaknesses – Limited experience as a starter, questionable leadership skills.
Julian Fink: Strengths – Incredible accuracy, poise, and decision-making skills, exceptional experience playing in a high-powered offense. Weaknesses – Limited physicality, vulnerability to sacks.
Peter Kline: Strengths – Significant improvement over the season, exceptional accuracy, and ball security, impressive poise under pressure. Weaknesses – Limited experience as a starter, questionable leadership skills.
Potential Landing Spots for the Cowboys Based on their Quarterback Needs
Given their current quarterback situation and needs, the Cowboys may be interested in targeting one or more of these quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. The team’s ideal quarterback will be one who can provide exceptional accuracy, poise under pressure, and decision-making skills, in addition to possessing a strong arm and athleticism.
Linebacker Preview for the 2026 NFL Draft
In the world of professional football, a sturdy linebacker is akin to a well-placed brick in a castle’s wall – they provide the foundation upon which a team’s defense is built. As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to face the challenge of bolstering their linebacking corps through the 2026 NFL Draft, we find ourselves at the crossroads of talent, strategy, and the age-old quest for dominance on the gridiron.
The Importance of Linebackers in a Defense
In the grand symphony of football, linebackers play the role of the maestro, orchestrating a unit’s movements with finesse and precision. They are the quarterbacks of the defense, calling the shots and making split-second decisions that often decide the fate of a game. A strong linebacker corps can provide a team with a much-needed edge in terms of stopping the run, pressuring the quarterback, and covering the pass. The statistics are telling: a team with a top-tier linebacker often boasts a better-than-average defense.
Top Linebacker Prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft promises to deliver a crop of talented linebackers, each with their unique blend of speed, agility, and tenacity. Here are some of the top prospects that could bring a ray of hope to the Dallas Cowboys:
- Christian Taylor (OLB, University of Alabama)
- Matthew Jackson (ILB, Ohio State University)
- Michael Lee (OLB, University of Oklahoma)
Taylor is a force to be reckoned with on the field, boasting a rare combination of size (6’2″, 245 lbs), speed (4.5 40-yard dash), and athleticism. He is known for his ability to shut down rushing attacks and his knack for sniffing out the quarterback.
Jackson is a tackling machine, with over 300 tackles in his college career. He is a master of reading plays and making instinctive decisions, showcasing his impressive instincts and football IQ.
Lee is a speedy linebacker with a penchant for making plays in space. He is known for his quick change of direction and ability to track down ball carriers, often making plays in the open field.
Comparing the Cowboys’ Current Linebacking Corps to the Top Prospects
The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a linebacking corps that, while experienced, lacks a true game-changer. The team’s current starters are solid but ultimately fall short of the level of talent that these top prospects possess. The likes of Taylor, Jackson, and Lee bring an unparalleled level of athleticism, size, and tenacity that would undoubtedly elevate the Cowboys’ defense.
How Each Prospect Could Fit into the Cowboys’ Defensive Scheme
Each of the top linebacker prospects brings a unique set of skills that would complement the Cowboys’ defensive scheme.
- Taylor’s size, speed, and athleticism would allow him to excel as an outside linebacker, terrorizing opposing quarterbacks and ball carriers with his relentless pressure and pursuit.
- Jackson’s instincts and tackle count would make him a stalwart inside linebacker, providing the Cowboys’ defense with a steady presence in the middle of the field.
- Lee’s speed and agility would allow him to thrive in the slot linebacker role, providing the defense with a versatile and explosive force that could shut down both the run and pass.
Wide Receiver Outlook for the 2026 NFL Draft
The Dallas Cowboys have been actively seeking to revamp their receiving corps, and the 2026 NFL Draft offers an opportunity to address this pressing need. A reliable wide receiver can be the difference-maker in the offense, providing a safety net for Dak Prescott to rely on and creating opportunities for explosive plays. The absence of a consistent target has left the Cowboys’ offense lacking a cohesive dimension, and it is imperative that they find a suitable replacement in the upcoming draft.
A multitude of talented wide receivers are projected to be available in the 2026 draft class, and the Cowboys must navigate these options to find the ideal fit for their system. In this analysis, we will break down the top prospects at the position and assess their skills, both individually and in the context of the Cowboys’ requirements.
Top Prospects: Wide Receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft, Dallas cowboys mock draft 2026
The list of potential targets is replete with talented players boasting exceptional athleticism and ball skills. However, it is crucial to scrutinize each prospect’s profile to identify their optimal landing spots.
- Taylor Powell, Ohio State
- Ryan Jenkins, USC
- Julian Harris, Florida
- Logan Brooks, Alabama
- Jaxon Reed, Oklahoma
- DeMarcco Holland from the University of Alabama, who recorded 4 interceptions and 8 pass defenses in the 2025 season and possesses a 4.38-second 40-yard dash time at the 2026 NFL Combine.
- Ethan Wickersham from the University of Oregon, who registered 5 interceptions and 10 pass defenses in the 2025 season, showcasing exceptional ball-hawking skills and a 4.42-second 40-yard dash time.
- Malachi Thomas from the University of Georgia, who amassed 3 interceptions and 12 pass defenses in the 2025 season while displaying exceptional tackling ability and a 4.39-second 40-yard dash time.
Powell has established himself as one of the most dynamic receivers in college football. Measuring 6 feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, he boasts impressive velocity, agility, and hands, making him an ideal candidate for the Cowboys. Powell has demonstrated the ability to create separation through his athleticism and route-running techniques, which could be essential in the Cowboys’ offense.
At 6 feet 2 inches and 225 pounds, Jenkins is a bigger-bodied receiver who can be a matchup nightmare for defensive coordinators. His exceptional speed, agility, and hands make him an appealing prospect for the Cowboys. Jenkins has a high ceiling, capable of making plays over the top or in the middle of the field.
Harris has a unique blend of size, speed, and athleticism, making him an attractive target for the Cowboys. At 6 feet 1 inch and 215 pounds, he can thrive in a high-volume receiving role and possesses the skillset to separate from defenders.
Brooks has emerged as a top prospect in the 2026 draft class, bringing a unique combination of height, speed, and ball-hawking ability to the table. He measures 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 220 pounds, making him an ideal candidate for the Cowboys. Brooks has demonstrated exceptional hands and route-running skills, which could be crucial in the Cowboys’ offense.
Reed is a physical receiver with exceptional size (6 feet 2 inches and 225 pounds), coupled with impressive speed, agility, and hands. He boasts the ability to create separation through his athleticism and route-running techniques, which could be pivotal in the Cowboys’ offense.
Assessing the Prospects: Strengths and Weaknesses
Each of these prospects has unique strengths that could be valuable for the Cowboys. Taylor Powell excels in terms of speed and hands, while Ryan Jenkins provides a physical presence that can be a matchup nightmare for defenders. Julian Harris offers a versatile skillset, while Logan Brooks boasts impressive size and ball skills. Jaxon Reed provides exceptional size and athleticism, which could be crucial in the Cowboys’ receiving corps.
These prospects are primed to become impact players at the next level and will undoubtedly be at the heart of the discussions surrounding the Cowboys’ needs in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Projected Landing Spots for Dallas Cowboys
Given their receiving corps’ current state, the Cowboys are likely to address this position in the upcoming draft. Considering the prospects Artikeld above, it is feasible that Dallas would be drawn to a player like Taylor Powell, who has the ability to provide a much-needed playmaker on the outside. Alternatively, a player like Julian Harris could offer a well-rounded skillset, making him an attractive candidate to fill a starting role.
Additionally, the Cowboys might opt for a more physical receiver like Ryan Jenkins or Logan Brooks, who could provide a reliable presence in the passing game. Jaxon Reed, with his exceptional size and athleticism, could also be a consideration for the Cowboys if they opt for a more physical approach to their receiving corps.
Each of these prospects presents a compelling case for why they could be a suitable fit for the Cowboys. Ultimately, it will be crucial for the team to evaluate their needs and determine which player offers the most value in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Safety Options for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft
The safety position is one of the most critical components of the Dallas Cowboys’ defense, responsible for providing support to the cornerback and linebacker units while also serving as a last line of defense against opposing offenses. Finding a reliable safety in the 2026 NFL Draft is essential for the Cowboys to address potential weaknesses in their secondary and to bolster their defensive capabilities.
Top Safety Prospects in the 2026 Draft Class
The top safety prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class boast impressive speed, ball-hawking skills, and tackling prowess, making them highly sought after by teams in need of a reliable safety. Among the top prospects are:
Each of these prospects offers a unique set of skills, making them attractive options for the Cowboys to address their safety needs.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Safety Prospect
DeMarcco Holland
DeMarcco Holland, the projected first-round safety, excels in various facets, including ball-hawking, speed, and athleticism. He consistently demonstrated exceptional play in the secondary, showcasing his ability to intercept passes and record passes defended. Holland’s greatest strength lies in his athleticism, which allows him to cover receivers and possess the ball skills required to make game-changing plays.
However, his aggressiveness can lead to overplaying on occasion, which might result in missed tackles or assignments. Nevertheless, Holland’s speed and ball-hawking skills make him an attractive option for teams requiring a strong, versatile safety.
Ethan Wickersham
Ethan Wickersham is another standout safety prospect, boasting impressive speed and exceptional ball-hawking skills. He consistently demonstrated his ability to intercept passes and record passes defended, showcasing his exceptional play in the secondary. Wickersham’s greatest strength lies in his ability to anticipate passes and break on the ball, making him a threat to opposing offenses.
However, his tackling, while solid, can sometimes be a concern. He occasionally struggles with wrapping up and securing tackles, which may lead to missed assignments and additional yards given up by the defense. Nevertheless, Wickersham’s speed and ball-hawking skills make him an attractive option for teams seeking a strong, athletic safety.
Malachi Thomas
Malachi Thomas, while not as flashy as the other two prospects, brings a unique set of skills to the table. He consistently demonstrated exceptional tackling ability and ball skills, showcasing his play in the secondary. Thomas’s greatest strength lies in his tackling, which allows him to wrap up and secure assignments, often leading to additional tackles.
However, his speed and athleticism are concerns. He struggles to match the speed of opposing receivers, which makes it difficult for him to cover and make plays on the ball.
Comparing the Cowboys’ Current Safeties to Top Draft-Eligible Prospects
The Cowboys’ current safety corps boasts veterans like Jaylon Johnson and Jourdan Lewis, who bring experience and tackling ability to the position. However, their skills and athleticism may not be as polished as the top safety prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class. Each of the prospects mentioned earlier brings something unique to the table, making them attractive options for the Cowboys to address their safety needs.
Jaylon Johnson, in particular, faces stiff competition from the top safety prospects. His strength in tackling is often overshadowed by his occasional aggressiveness, which can lead to overplaying and assignments not being completed. Nevertheless, Johnson’s experience and tackling ability make him a reliable option, but the addition of a safety like DeMarcco Holland or Ethan Wickersham could significantly bolster the Cowboys’ secondary.
Overall, the safety position is one of the most crucial components of the Dallas Cowboys’ defense, and finding a reliable safety in the 2026 NFL Draft is essential for addressing potential weaknesses in their secondary. The top safety prospects in the 2026 class, led by DeMarcco Holland, Ethan Wickersham, and Malachi Thomas, boast impressive speed, ball-hawking skills, and tackling prowess, making them highly sought after by teams in need of a reliable safety.
Final Wrap-Up: Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft 2026
After reviewing the top prospects for the Cowboys in the 2026 NFL Draft, it’s clear that the team has several options to choose from who can address their needs at quarterback and other positions. A successful draft can propel the Cowboys back into contention, and we’ll continue to monitor their progress throughout the 2026 season.
Top FAQs
What are the Cowboys’ biggest needs in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Cowboys’ biggest needs are at quarterback, where they need a reliable starter, and at linebacker, where they need depth and a playmaker.
Who are some of the top quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The top quarterback prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft are expected to be Trevor Penning from Wisconsin, Jaxon Smith-Njigba from Ohio State, and Michael Mayer from Alabama.
Will the Cowboys trade down in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft?
While it’s possible, it’s unlikely that the Cowboys will trade down in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft because they need to address their biggest needs.
Who are some of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The top wide receiver prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft are Jaxon Smith-Njigba from Ohio State, Marlon Byrd from Georgia, and Jordan Addison from USC.
Will the Cowboys target a top defensive player in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Cowboys may target a top defensive player in the 2026 NFL Draft, but it depends on the available talent at the position.
