Dallas Cowboys eyeing top defensive prospects in 2026 NFL draft

Insider Joseph Hoyt breaks down potential targets like Caleb Downs, Dillon Thieneman, CJ Allen, and Rueben Bain Jr.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 6:18pm

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As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the 2026 NFL draft, they have several intriguing defensive prospects on their radar. According to Cowboys insider Joseph Hoyt, the team could target players like Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman, Georgia linebacker CJ Allen, and Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. with their two first-round picks (12th and 20th overall).

Why it matters

The Cowboys are looking to bolster their defense through the draft, with needs at safety, linebacker, and edge rusher. Adding talented players at these positions could significantly improve their defensive unit and help them compete in the NFC East.

The details

Caleb Downs from Ohio State is considered one of the best players in the draft class and could line up as a safety or slot corner for the Cowboys. Dillon Thieneman from Oregon is another versatile defensive back who has impressed scouts. CJ Allen from Georgia is a hard-hitting linebacker who could elevate the Cowboys' defense, while Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami is an intriguing edge rusher despite his smaller stature.

  • The 2026 NFL draft will take place in April.
  • The Cowboys have the 12th and 20th overall picks in the first round.

The players

Caleb Downs

An Ohio State safety who could be one of the best players in the 2026 NFL draft class and would fit well in the Cowboys' defensive scheme.

Dillon Thieneman

An Oregon safety who has impressed scouts with his versatility and could be a target for the Cowboys at either of their first-round picks.

CJ Allen

A hard-hitting linebacker from Georgia who the Cowboys spoke to at the NFL combine and could help bolster their linebacker group.

Rueben Bain Jr.

A productive edge rusher from Miami who may not have the prototypical size, but is still one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2026 draft.

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What they’re saying

“Downs could line up as a safety and as a slot corner in the box. That versatility would fit well in Christian Parker's scheme.”

— Joseph Hoyt, Cowboys insider (The Dallas Morning News)

“At the combine, he told reporters he wants opposing players to feel it when he hits them. His superpower is elevating the players around him.”

— Joseph Hoyt, Cowboys insider (The Dallas Morning News)

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue to evaluate these prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL draft in April, where they will have the 12th and 20th overall picks to address their defensive needs.

The takeaway

The Cowboys have several intriguing defensive prospects to consider with their two first-round picks, as they look to build a more well-rounded unit to compete in the NFC East. Adding players like Caleb Downs, Dillon Thieneman, CJ Allen, and Rueben Bain Jr. could significantly improve their defense and help them make a playoff push in 2026.