Dallas Cowboys draft picks, grades for selections in NFL Draft

TL;DR

The Dallas Cowboys have two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, including one from the Micah Parsons trade. They are focusing on improving their front seven and may also target an off-ball linebacker or secondary help.

Key points

Dallas Cowboys have two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft
One pick acquired in the Micah Parsons trade
Recent additions include Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, and Rashan Gary
Need for improvement in the front seven and secondary
George Pickens will sign his franchise tag

Micah ParsonsQuinnen WilliamsKenny ClarkRashan Gary

The Dallas Cowboys have two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, one of which acquired in the Micah Parsons trade.

Dallas has started to make over its front seven by adding Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark and Rashan Gary over the last nine months. More is needed, especially off the edge.

The Cowboys could also use an early pick for an off-ball linebacker or in the secondary. ESPN reported that George Pickens will sign his franchise tag, temporarily lowering the need for a possible WR2 unless he is traded.

Here's the Cowboys' picks, selections and grades for the NFL Draft.

NFL DRAFT TRACKER: NFL Draft Round 1 picks, live instant grades, trades, tracker, updates

Dallas Cowboys NFL Draft picks

1st round, No. 11 overall (from Miami) | Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

Instant grade: A
Analysis: Downs is the best player available and should be a long-time Pro Bowl-level starter at safety for the Cowboys. Two Day 3 picks is a small price to pay. He's the best centerfield safety prospect in years who can move around the defense.