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Cowboys Trade Up, Pick Safety Caleb Downs at No. 11

4/24/2026

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Summary

Cowboys Draft Downs

The Dallas Cowboys moved to No. 11 in the 2026 NFL Draft, trading the No. 12 pick and two fifth-rounders to the Miami Dolphins to select safety Caleb Downs.
Downs, the 2025 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and a unanimous All-American, recorded 257 tackles in 44 college games.
He will join Jalen Thompson under defensive coordinator Christian Parker as Dallas attempts to fix its last-place secondary, first first-round safety since 2002.

Summary

Kalshi Predicts Downs

Kalshi’s prediction market lists a $0.56 price for a Cowboys safety pick, making Caleb Downs the most likely defensive selection.
Kalshi offers a sign-up bonus to new users who trade on the Cowboys’ draft moves.
Dallas entered 2026 with offense ranked second in yards and seventh in points, led by Dak Prescott, George Pickens and Javonte Williams, while Pickens is being discussed as a potential trade piece.

History

Historical Context

The Dallas Cowboys selected safety Roy Williams eighth overall in the 2002 NFL Draft, reflecting their commitment to a strong defense. Williams, a standout at Oklahoma, contributed significantly to the Cowboys' defensive strategy, helping them achieve a top-ranked defense in 2003. The recent trade for Caleb Downs indicates the franchise's ongoing efforts to bolster its secondary, which has faced challenges in recent seasons.

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Cowboys Draft Downs

The Dallas Cowboys moved to No. 11 in the 2026 NFL Draft, trading the No. 12 pick and two fifth-rounders to the Miami Dolphins to select safety Caleb Downs.
Downs, the 2025 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and a unanimous All-American, recorded 257 tackles in 44 college games.
He will join Jalen Thompson under defensive coordinator Christian Parker as Dallas attempts to fix its last-place secondary, first first-round safety since 2002.

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