8 Combine Invitees That Could Make Sense for Cowboys

The NFL sent out 319 Combine invites to draft prospects on Wednesday. Here's a look at eight players, one from each position group, that could raise their stock with a good performance.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The NFL has sent out 319 invites to draft prospects to participate in the NFL Combine in Indianapolis from February 23 through March 2. The Cowboys and the rest of the league will get a chance to evaluate these players through drills, interviews, and more. This article looks at eight players, one from each position group, that could make sense for the Cowboys if they have a strong showing at the Combine.

Why it matters

The Combine is an important event in the NFL draft process, as teams get to evaluate prospects in person for the first time. A good performance can significantly boost a player's draft stock, and the Cowboys will be looking to identify potential fits for their roster at various positions of need.

The details

The eight players highlighted are: DL R Mason Thomas (Oklahoma), LB Jake Golday (Cincinnati), DB Keith Abney (Arizona State), OL Dametrious Crownover (Texas A&M), RB Emmett Johnson (Nebraska), WR CJ Daniels (Miami), TE Tanner Koziol (Houston), and QB Cade Klubnik (Clemson). Each player has unique traits and skills that could make them appealing options for the Cowboys, depending on how they perform at the Combine.

  • The NFL sent out 319 Combine invites to draft prospects on Wednesday.
  • The NFL Combine will take place in Indianapolis from February 23 through March 2.

The players

R Mason Thomas

A defensive lineman from Oklahoma who has a quick get-off, good bend, and speed in his rushes that led to first-team All-SEC honors in 2025. He could be a fit in an odd front defense.

Jake Golday

A massive, athletic linebacker from Cincinnati who flies to the football and led his team in tackles in 2025. He could be a Day 2 option for the Cowboys if they have a need at linebacker.

Keith Abney

A versatile cornerback from Arizona State who can play both in the slot and on the boundary. He is an aggressive, physical defender against the run and pass.

Dametrious Crownover

A massive offensive lineman from Texas A&M who stands 6'7" and weighs 336 pounds. He could be a developmental option at right tackle for the Cowboys if they move on from Terence Steele.

Emmett Johnson

A running back from Nebraska who had a breakout 2025 season with 1,451 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. He could provide depth and competition in the Cowboys' running back room.

CJ Daniels

A wide receiver from Miami who has good size at 6'2", 205 pounds, and the speed to stretch the field. He could be an option to add more weapons to the Cowboys' offense.

Tanner Koziol

A tough, physical receiving tight end from Houston who had 74 receptions for 727 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2025. He could provide competition in the Cowboys' tight end room.

Cade Klubnik

A quarterback from Clemson who has some intriguing tools that could be showcased at the Combine. While unlikely the Cowboys would draft a QB, Klubnik could be a developmental option.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The NFL Combine is an important event for teams like the Cowboys to evaluate draft prospects and identify potential fits for their roster. These eight players, if they impress at the Combine, could emerge as intriguing options for the Cowboys to consider in the upcoming draft as they look to bolster their team for the 2026 season.