Dallas Cowboys Aim to Bolster Defense in 2026 NFL Draft

With a talented offense but struggling defense, the Cowboys look to the draft to address key needs on that side of the ball.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:35pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Dallas Cowboys football game, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, silver, and white, conveying the fractured nature of the team's defensive struggles.The Dallas Cowboys' defense faces a critical rebuilding phase, requiring a strategic approach to the 2026 NFL Draft.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys had a talented offense in 2025 but struggled mightily on defense, leading to a disappointing 7-9 season. In the offseason, the team has focused on bolstering the defense through free agency, signing players like safety Jalen Thompson and cornerback Cobie Durant. Now, with multiple first-round picks, the Cowboys will look to the 2026 NFL Draft to further improve their defense, with cornerback, linebacker, and wide receiver being the top needs.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' inability to stop opponents on defense was a major factor in their down season in 2025. Improving the defense through the draft will be crucial for the team to return to playoff contention in the NFC East. The team's offensive firepower is already in place, so shoring up the defense could make the Cowboys a force to be reckoned with in 2026.

The details

The Cowboys' defense allowed the second-most touchdowns in the NFL in 2025 (35), a major reason why the team scored as many points as it gave up. Dallas has already made moves in free agency to address the defense, signing former Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson and Rams cornerback Cobie Durant, as well as trading for Packers defensive end Rashan Gary. In the draft, the team will have multiple first-round picks, including the 12th and 20th overall selections, to target top defensive prospects. Cornerback, linebacker, and wide receiver are the team's top needs heading into the draft.

  • The Cowboys finished the 2025 season with a 7-9 record.
  • Dallas has made several free agent signings to bolster the defense this offseason.

The players

Micah Parsons

The Cowboys' star linebacker was traded away prior to the 2025 season, leaving a major hole in the team's defense.

Jalen Thompson

The former Cardinals safety was signed by the Cowboys in free agency to help improve the team's secondary.

Cobie Durant

The former Rams cornerback was also signed by the Cowboys in free agency to shore up the team's defensive backfield.

Rashan Gary

The Packers defensive end was acquired by the Cowboys via trade to bolster their pass rush.

George Pickens

The Cowboys' star wide receiver was franchise tagged, but the team could still look to draft a future replacement at the position.

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What’s next

The Cowboys will look to address their defensive needs with their multiple first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, with cornerback, linebacker, and wide receiver being the top priorities.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' inability to stop opponents on defense was a major factor in their disappointing 2025 season. By focusing on improving the defense through free agency and the draft, the team hopes to return to playoff contention in the NFC East in 2026.