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Cowboys Open 2026 Draft Trade Talks, Eye Bailey or Downs

4/23/2026

40 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Jerry Jones Trades

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said the team is fielding trade calls for the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Cowboys hold two first-round picks, including No. 20 acquired in the Micah Parsons trade.
Jones said the club will stay open to a deal, though a trade down seems likelier.
The team could move up to select Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey or Ohio State quarterback Caleb Downs.

Summary

Cowboys Target Versatility

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Christian Parker are targeting versatile, multi-position defenders in the draft.
Dallas is evaluating Indiana cornerback D’Angelo Ponds and, after a pre-draft visit by wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., may shift a first-round pick to offense.
Insider Daniel Jeremiah lists UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence, the No. 39 prospect, as a potential late-first-round surprise.

History

Historical Context

The NFL introduced the draft trade system in 1984 to enhance team strategies, allowing trades of draft picks. The Dallas Cowboys, under owner Jerry Jones, have effectively utilized this system, notably acquiring a first-round pick through the Micah Parsons trade. This reflects a broader trend in the league where teams optimize draft capital to improve their rosters and future performance.

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Jerry Jones Trades

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said the team is fielding trade calls for the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Cowboys hold two first-round picks, including No. 20 acquired in the Micah Parsons trade.
Jones said the club will stay open to a deal, though a trade down seems likelier.
The team could move up to select Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey or Ohio State quarterback Caleb Downs.

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