Cowboys’ 2026 NFL Draft Strategy: Cornerback and Edge Rusher Focus
The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft with two first-round picks, following a second consecutive season missing the playoffs. The team currently holds the 12th and 20th overall selections, acquired through trades, including one with the Green Bay Packers for Micah Parsons. While the draft is unpredictable, current mock drafts suggest potential targets for the Cowboys in the first round.
Potential First-Round Picks
Cornerback: Jermod McCoy
ESPN’s Field Yates’ recent mock draft projects Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy to the Cowboys at the 12th pick.1 McCoy is considered a top-10 talent, but his draft stock is uncertain due to an ACL tear in January 2025. He is expected to participate in Tennessee’s pro day on March 31, 2026, which could solidify his draft position if he demonstrates full recovery.1
At his best, McCoy offers exceptional length (77-inch wingspan), ball skills, and timing, potentially addressing a significant require for the Cowboys, who finished last in yards per dropback allowed (7.3) and total pass breakups (30) in the previous season.1
Edge Rusher: R Mason Thomas
Yates’ mock draft also projects Oklahoma edge rusher R Mason Thomas to the Cowboys at the 20th pick.1 Thomas is described as an explosive and relentless pass rusher with heavy hands and a strong run-stopping ability. Despite dealing with an injury in 2025, he recorded 6.5 sacks and 23 pressures in nine games.1
Selecting an edge rusher aligns with the Cowboys’ need to bolster their pass rush, particularly after trading for Rashan Gary.1
Cowboys’ Overall Draft Portfolio
The Cowboys possess a total of eight picks in the 2026 NFL Draft:
- Round 1, 12th overall
- Round 1, 20th (via Green Bay)
- Round 3, 92nd
- Round 4, 112th
- Round 5, 152nd
- Round 5, 177th (compensatory)
- Round 5, 180th (compensatory)
- Round 7, 218th
This draft class marks the first time since 2008 the Cowboys will have two first-round selections, and the eighth time in franchise history they will select twice in the first round.2
Draft Details
The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from April 23-25.3