Cowboys' Schottenheimer Open to Drafting Offensive Player in First Round

Dallas team has needs on both sides of the ball ahead of NFL Draft

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:34pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented and overlapping shapes in navy blue, silver, and red, representing the uncertainty and multiple perspectives of the upcoming NFL Draft for the Dallas Cowboys.The unpredictability of the NFL Draft leaves the Cowboys open to a range of possibilities with their two first-round picks.Dallas Today

Despite the Dallas Cowboys' defensive struggles last season, new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer has not ruled out the team selecting an offensive player with one of their two first-round picks in the upcoming NFL Draft. Schottenheimer stated that the Cowboys will take the best player available, even if that means drafting an offensive player over a defensive one.

Why it matters

The Cowboys had one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season, allowing a franchise-record 511 points. While they have made some offseason moves to address the defense, there are still significant needs, especially at linebacker and in the secondary. However, Schottenheimer's comments suggest the team is open to improving the offense as well if the right player falls to them.

The details

The Cowboys traded for edge rusher Rashan Gary and signed safety Jalen Thompson and defensive tackle Otito Ogbonnia this offseason, but they still have holes to fill on defense. Schottenheimer acknowledged the team could target a defensive player with one or both of their first-round picks, but he did not rule out taking an offensive player if that player is the best available option.

  • The Cowboys allowed a franchise-record 511 points last season.

The players

Brian Schottenheimer

The Cowboys' new offensive coordinator, who previously held the same role with the Seattle Seahawks.

Christian Parker

The Cowboys' new defensive coordinator, who is switching the team to a 3-4 base defense.

Jerry Jones

The owner of the Dallas Cowboys, who is known for his willingness to make bold moves in the NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“What I love about the draft is the unpredictability of it.”

— Brian Schottenheimer, Cowboys Offensive Coordinator

“If the best player on the board is clearly an offensive player, then we'll certainly discuss that, and more than likely, knowing [Cowboys owner Jerry Jones], pull the trigger.”

— Brian Schottenheimer, Cowboys Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

The Cowboys will continue to evaluate their options ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, which begins on April 24th. They hold the 12th and 20th overall picks in the first round.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' focus this offseason has been on improving their defense, but the team's new offensive coordinator is leaving the door open for the possibility of drafting an offensive player in the first round if the right opportunity presents itself. This suggests the team is taking a balanced approach to the draft as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.