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Cowboys Enter Draft with No. 12, 20 Picks, Target Defense

4/24/2026

50 12 Full Breakdown

Summary

Cowboys Draft Strategy

Dallas Cowboys entered the 2026 NFL Draft with picks, first-round slots at No. 12 and No. 20.
After a 7-9-1 2025 season that gave them worst scoring defense, VP Will McClay said first-round picks (last in 2005 and 2008) target linebacker, edge, cornerback, safety and offensive tackle.
Chief Operating Officer (COO) Stephen Jones said the Cowboys are exploring veteran trades and that owner Jerry Jones believes the No. 1 picks will trade for value.

Summary

Cowboys Draft Moves

The Cowboys have made 73 draft-day trades since 1989 and, in 2025, selected guard Tyler Booker and traded a third-round pick for receiver George Pickens, continuing their acquisition pattern.
Dallas surrendered 30.1 points per game in 2025, the NFL’s worst, after which Stephen Jones said they are discussing veteran additions after the draft.
The 2026 class adds depth with Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love and Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.

Summary

Dallas Trades Picks

Dallas proposes trading its No.12 pick to the Jets for the Jets’ No.16 and No.44 selections.
A tougher offer swaps the No.12 pick for the Jets’ No.16, No.33, and a later day-3 selection.
Analysts say Dallas hopes Jordyn Tyson’s hype will secure the Jets’ second-round slot, valuable because Dallas lacks its own second-round pick and the Jets sit near Dallas on the board.

History

Historical Context

The NFL introduced free agency in 1989, revolutionizing player movement and team strategies. The Dallas Cowboys, who selected quarterback Troy Aikman first overall in the 1989 draft, have since made 73 draft-day trades to enhance their roster. As they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cowboys aim to improve their defense, having allowed an average of 30.1 points per game in 2025.

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Cowboys Draft Strategy

Dallas Cowboys entered the 2026 NFL Draft with picks, first-round slots at No. 12 and No. 20.
After a 7-9-1 2025 season that gave them worst scoring defense, VP Will McClay said first-round picks (last in 2005 and 2008) target linebacker, edge, cornerback, safety and offensive tackle.
Chief Operating Officer (COO) Stephen Jones said the Cowboys are exploring veteran trades and that owner Jerry Jones believes the No. 1 picks will trade for value.

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