The Dallas Cowboys are heading into the 2026 NFL Draft looking to rebuild their defence. With the draft less than two weeks away, the Cowboys are finalising their draft board. They could have around 16-20 first-round grades, holding the 12th- and 20th-overall picks on Day 1.
Cowboys Open to Trading in First Round
The Cowboys’ front office is considering all options. They are open to trading up or down in the first round. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones stated the Cowboys are “absolutely” open to those possibilities.
The team is focused on drafting players who can make an immediate impact. This includes making an impact in the locker room. The Cowboys want culture-changing players.
Focus on Culture and Identity
Executive vice president and director of player personnel Stephen Jones emphasised the importance of culture. He stated they are trying to create an identity of being all for the football team. Jones said they lacked that last year, on defense in particular.
The goal is to have a culture and identity for the entire football team. This is what Brian Schottenheimer is trying to develop. He wants to bring in men who compete and positively influence the organisation.
Defensive Changes After Poor Performance
The Cowboys’ defensive performance in 2025 was the worst in the franchise’s history. Matt Eberflus struggled to get buy-in or positive continuity from his players. Eberflus was replaced by Christian Parker as coordinator.
The team hopes to repair the culture issue within the defensive coaching staff. Parker’s hiring ushers in a new era. The revamped staff is designed to get players fully bought in.
The aim is to modernise play-calling and in-game adaptations. This is to match Schottenheimer’s league-leading offense.
Incoming rookies must understand that “the standard is the standard”. Schottenheimer and the Cowboys mean it wholeheartedly.