Cowboys May Prioritize Defense in 2026 NFL Draft

New defensive coordinator Christian Parker will have significant influence on Dallas' first-round picks.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:43pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting an NFL draft scene, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, silver, and white representing the Dallas Cowboys and their focus on defense.A cubist interpretation of the Dallas Cowboys' strategic approach to the 2026 NFL Draft, as they look to bolster their defense under new coordinator Christian Parker.Dallas Today

The Dallas Cowboys, who had one of the NFL's best offenses last season but struggled defensively, are expected to focus on bolstering their defense in the 2026 NFL Draft. According to reports, new defensive coordinator Christian Parker will have a major say in the team's first-round selections, with the Cowboys potentially taking two defensive players with their two first-round picks.

Why it matters

The Cowboys' inability to stop opponents on defense was a major factor in the team missing the playoffs last season, despite having one of the league's most potent offenses. By prioritizing defense in the draft and giving their new coordinator a prominent voice, the Cowboys are signaling a shift in their approach as they look to return to the postseason.

The details

The Cowboys are reportedly considering taking two defensive players with their two first-round picks, which are currently slated to be at No. 12 and No. 20 overall. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who is just 34 years old, will have significant input on the team's draft strategy and selections, even if he doesn't make the final picks himself.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Jerry Jones

The owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys.

Christian Parker

The new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, who is expected to have a major say in the team's draft strategy and selections.

Quinnen Williams

A defensive player for the Cowboys who has shown promise.

Shavon Revel Jr.

A promising defensive player for the Cowboys.

Donovan Ezeiruaku

A promising defensive player for the Cowboys.

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What they’re saying

“It would be a surprise if the Cowboys don't go defense-defense with the two first-round picks, and of course they could do something to trade up in the draft as well.”

— Jonathan Jones, CBS Sports insider

“The influence new defensive coordinator Christian Parker will have on what the Cowboys do is significant. Parker is just 34 years old and hardly a household name, but he will have a major say in what the most popular NFL team does next week at picks No. 12 and 20.”

— Jonathan Jones, CBS Sports insider

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026, and the Cowboys' first-round picks at No. 12 and No. 20 will be a key focus as the team looks to bolster its defense under the guidance of new coordinator Christian Parker.

The takeaway

The Cowboys' decision to give their new defensive coordinator a prominent voice in the team's draft strategy signals a shift in priorities as they look to address the defensive issues that plagued them last season. By potentially taking two defensive players in the first round, the Cowboys are making it clear that improving on that side of the ball is their top offseason priority.