Cowboys Face Tough Roster Decisions Ahead of Draft

Several key players on the bubble as Dallas looks to upgrade roster

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:37am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a Dallas Cowboys football game, conceptually representing the team's complex roster decisions ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.The Cowboys' draft strategy will shape the team's future, as they navigate complex roster decisions and seek to build a competitive squad for the 2026 season.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical juncture in their draft strategy, with several key players potentially in danger of being cut. The team's recent moves and upcoming decisions have sparked intense debate among fans and analysts, as the Cowboys look to address needs at tight end, safety, and cornerback.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' roster decisions leading up to the draft will have significant implications for the team's future success. Cutting the wrong players or failing to address critical needs could hamper the team's competitiveness in the NFC East and beyond.

The details

One player facing an uncertain future is blocking tight end Luke Schoonmaker, whose average college performance has not translated to the NFL. The Cowboys' interest in Vanderbilt TE Eli Stowers could signal the end of Schoonmaker's time in Dallas. Safety Markquese Bell has exceeded expectations, but the arrival of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker and the potential draft picks of Caleb Downs and Dillon Thieneman have created a competitive environment that could lead to Bell's departure. The Cowboys' cornerback situation is also a concern, with the team's interest in Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy carrying significant injury uncertainty.

  • The Dallas Cowboys are facing these roster decisions ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Luke Schoonmaker

A blocking tight end drafted by the Cowboys in 2023, whose average college performance has not translated to the NFL.

Markquese Bell

A safety who has exceeded expectations, but faces increased competition with the arrival of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker and the potential draft picks of Caleb Downs and Dillon Thieneman.

Jermod McCoy

A cornerback from Tennessee that the Cowboys are interested in, but carries significant injury uncertainty.

Caleb Douglas

A wide receiver who has met with several teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, during the pre-draft process.

Cobie Durant

A cornerback the Cowboys signed from the NFC West, which has raised some pause moments.

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What they’re saying

“The Cowboys' roster decisions leading up to the draft will have significant implications for the team's future success. Cutting the wrong players or failing to address critical needs could hamper the team's competitiveness in the NFC East and beyond.”

— Analyst

What’s next

The Cowboys must carefully consider their options, balancing the need for immediate contributors with the risk of reaching for players who may not be available for a full season. The team's decisions will shape their future success and determine which players will remain in the fold.

The takeaway

The Dallas Cowboys are facing a critical juncture in their roster management, with several key players on the bubble as the team looks to upgrade its roster through the draft. The team's decisions in the coming weeks will have significant implications for their competitiveness in the NFC East and beyond.