Cowboys Reportedly Targeting Defense in 2026 NFL Draft

Dallas looking to bolster struggling defense with first-round picks

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:11pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Dallas Cowboys defensive player making a play, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and form.The Cowboys' defense struggled mightily in 2025, prompting the team to focus on improving that side of the ball in the 2026 NFL Draft.Dallas Today

According to league sources, the Dallas Cowboys are expected to focus on improving their defense in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Cowboys ended the 2025 season ranked last in the league in points allowed and yards surrendered per game, prompting owner Jerry Jones to target defensive players with their two first-round picks, numbers 12 and 20 overall.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' defensive struggles in 2025 were a major factor in their disappointing season, and Jones is under pressure to find solutions in the draft. Upgrading the pass rush and secondary are seen as top priorities for Dallas as they look to bounce back and compete for a playoff spot in 2026.

The details

Reports indicate the Cowboys are eyeing Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, Miami pass-rusher Rueben Bain Jr., and San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson as potential first-round targets. The team traded away star linebacker Micah Parsons last year and failed to land impact defensive players like Maxx Crosby via trade, leaving them with major holes to fill on that side of the ball.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23.

The players

Jerry Jones

Owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys.

Micah Parsons

Former Cowboys linebacker who was traded to the Green Bay Packers in 2025.

Maxx Crosby

Defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders who the Cowboys reportedly failed to acquire via trade.

Caleb Downs

Ohio State safety projected as a potential Cowboys first-round pick.

Rueben Bain Jr.

Miami pass-rusher projected as a potential Cowboys first-round pick.

Chris Johnson

San Diego State cornerback projected as a potential Cowboys first-round pick.

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What they’re saying

“Jerry is thinking defense. With both picks.”

— Anonymous general manager

“It's a corner and a pass-rusher, right?”

— Anonymous personnel executive

What’s next

The Cowboys will have the opportunity to address their defensive needs when the 2026 NFL Draft takes place on April 23.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' defensive struggles in 2025 have put significant pressure on owner Jerry Jones to find solutions in the upcoming draft. By targeting defensive players with their two first-round picks, the team is signaling a commitment to improving a unit that was among the worst in the league last season.