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Cowboys Target Downs, Mesidor, Surprise Thieneman at No. 12

4/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Analysts name safety Caleb Downs and edge rusher Akeem Mesidor as targets for Dallas’s 2026 first-round picks.
Dallas holds the No. 12 and No. 20 slots after the Micah Parsons trade, despite surrendering 377.0 yards per game and the most points in 2025, the league’s third-worst defense.
ESPN’s Jorden Reid says Dallas could surprise by taking Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman at No. 12, despite most experts rating him a late first-round pick.

History

Historical Context

The NFL draft, established in 1935 to promote competitive balance, allows teams to select players based on their previous season's performance. In 2021, the league enhanced trading options for draft picks, impacting team strategies. The Dallas Cowboys notably acquired Micah Parsons, who excelled defensively, reflecting the ongoing emphasis on building strong defenses in a league where teams now allow an average of 377.0 yards per game.

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Story summary

Analysts name safety Caleb Downs and edge rusher Akeem Mesidor as targets for Dallas’s 2026 first-round picks.
Dallas holds the No. 12 and No. 20 slots after the Micah Parsons trade, despite surrendering 377.0 yards per game and the most points in 2025, the league’s third-worst defense.
ESPN’s Jorden Reid says Dallas could surprise by taking Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman at No. 12, despite most experts rating him a late first-round pick.

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