Dallas Cowboys Connected to Two Oregon Ducks Stars Early in NFL Draft

The Cowboys are reportedly eyeing safety Dillon Thieneman and linebacker Bryce Boettcher in the upcoming draft.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:37pm

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The Dallas Cowboys had a representative at Oregon's Pro Day and are now connected to two Ducks stars early in the 2026 NFL Draft. According to a recent mock draft, the Cowboys are expected to select safety Dillon Thieneman with the 20th overall pick and then linebacker Bryce Boettcher with the 92nd pick.

Why it matters

Landing both Thieneman and Boettcher would be a big boost for the Cowboys' defense, as they are considered potential "steals" that late in the draft. The selections would also reinforce how trusted Oregon prospects are becoming in NFL draft rooms.

The details

Thieneman is a plug-and-play safety with the instincts and playmaking ability to make an immediate impact. At the NFL Combine, he impressed with a 4.35-second 40-yard dash and 41-inch vertical jump. Boettcher, a former walk-on, has the athletic ability, work ethic, and versatility that the Cowboys value in their linebackers. He was the Big Ten's leading tackler in 2025 and is also a dual-sport standout who was drafted by the Houston Astros.

  • The Cowboys had a representative at Oregon's Pro Day on March 17, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Dillon Thieneman

A safety who transferred to Oregon ahead of the 2025 season after spending two years at Purdue. He won the starting job on Oregon's elite defense and finished the 2025 season with 92 total tackles, one sack, five passes defended, and two interceptions.

Bryce Boettcher

A linebacker who developed into the Big Ten's leading tackler in 2025. He was the Oregon Ducks' fan favorite and is a dual-sport standout who was also drafted by the Houston Astros in the 2024 MLB Draft.

Jerry Jones

The owner, president, and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys.

Bo Nix

The former Oregon quarterback who is now a star for the Denver Broncos.

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What they’re saying

“I'd love to tackle Bo Nix as my first tackle.”

— Bryce Boettcher, Linebacker

“I'd say, number one, someone that's all about the team. I think my walk-on background shows that. I've played many years without getting any money, just because of the love of the game. Number two, someone who's relentless and who plays with a lot of passion. I think it's evident in my film and on my tape that I play relentless and with passion. And number three, I'd say physical football player to physical presence. Most physical team always wins in this game, and I feel like I bring that to the team.”

— Bryce Boettcher, Linebacker

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026, where the Cowboys will have the opportunity to select Thieneman and Boettcher.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' potential selections of Thieneman and Boettcher would be a major boost for their defense, as both players are considered potential steals in the draft. The picks would also further cement Oregon's reputation for producing NFL-ready defensive talent.