Cowboys Predicted to Make Blockbuster Trade in NFL Draft

Dallas could move up to No. 3 to select Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:53pm

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The NFL Draft is approaching, and the Dallas Cowboys are rumored to be considering a blockbuster trade with the Arizona Cardinals to move up to the 3rd overall pick. According to a recent mock draft, the Cowboys would send picks #12 and #92 to the Cardinals in exchange for the 3rd selection, which they would then use to take Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey.

Why it matters

The Cowboys have a need for a dominant pass rusher after trading away Micah Parsons last offseason. Bailey is considered a top prospect who could fill that hole, and the Cowboys are willing to pay a steep price to move up and secure him.

The details

In his latest mock draft, The Athletic's Bruce Feldman predicts the Cowboys will trade up from #12 to #3 overall, sending the Cardinals their 12th and 92nd picks in return. At #3, the Cowboys would then select David Bailey, a fast and powerful edge rusher from Texas Tech who had 14.5 sacks last season. Bailey is viewed as a better pure pass rusher than Abdul Carter, who went 3rd overall to the Giants in last year's draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.

The players

David Bailey

A defensive end from Texas Tech University who is projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft due to his impressive pass rushing skills and athleticism.

Micah Parsons

A linebacker who was previously a star player for the Dallas Cowboys before being traded away last offseason.

Jerry Jones

The owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys.

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What they’re saying

“He'll get off the ball really quick but then shut it down and make a move as fast as he got off the ball. That's why he's such a problem for tackles in space or when he's one-on-one with a guard, because they can't stop and go like he can and still have power. I thought that was his superpower. He also has this ability to bend and be strong, and not get pushed by the pocket. He's just a different dude.”

— Big 12 Assistant Coach

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, where the Cowboys' potential trade and selection of David Bailey will be finalized.

The takeaway

The Cowboys are willing to pay a steep price to move up in the draft and select a top pass rushing talent in David Bailey, signaling their commitment to rebuilding their defense after trading away Micah Parsons. This bold move could pay dividends if Bailey lives up to his potential as an elite edge rusher.