ESPN Predicts Cowboys Could Draft Miami QB Carson Beck

The Dallas Cowboys are eyeing quarterback depth in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:57pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp planes of navy blue, silver, and white representing the Dallas Cowboys' team colors.A cubist interpretation of a Dallas Cowboys quarterback in action, reflecting the team's interest in adding depth at the position in the upcoming NFL Draft.Today in Pittsburgh

ESPN's recent mock draft has the Dallas Cowboys selecting former Miami quarterback Carson Beck in the fifth round of the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Beck has experience playing in big games, including last year's national championship, but is not projected to be a starting-caliber NFL quarterback immediately.

Why it matters

The Cowboys already have Dak Prescott as their starting QB, but are looking to add depth at the position. Beck would likely be a third-string quarterback behind Prescott and the team's other backup, Sam Howell.

The details

ESPN's Ben Solak noted that while Beck 'plays well within himself' and 'throws with anticipation and decisiveness,' he lacks a 'cardinal trait' that would make him a clear starting NFL QB. The Cowboys are coming off a season where their defense struggled, so adding Beck in the fifth round would be more of a developmental pick than an immediate need filler.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place on April 23.

The players

Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys' starting quarterback, who played at a near-MVP level last season.

Carson Beck

A former Miami quarterback who is projected to be selected by the Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Sam Howell

A quarterback currently on the Cowboys' roster, who would likely be the team's backup behind Prescott if they draft Beck.

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What they’re saying

“'When kept clean, Beck plays well within himself. He throws with anticipation and decisiveness, and he can flash high-caliber precision to pull receivers away from coverage when working between the numbers.'”

— Ben Solak, ESPN Analyst

“'... it's tough to find a cardinal trait for Beck to hang his hat on as a starting NFL quarterback.'”

— Ben Solak, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Cowboys will have a chance to address their quarterback depth, as well as other needs, when the 2026 NFL Draft begins on April 23.

The takeaway

While the Cowboys have their starting QB in Dak Prescott, they are looking to add more depth at the position in the upcoming draft. Carson Beck, a former Miami quarterback, could be a developmental pick for Dallas in the fifth round, but is not expected to challenge Prescott for the starting job anytime soon.