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Story perspectives

Cowboys Draft UCF RB Malachi Lawrence at No. 23

4/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Cowboys selected UCF rusher Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
He entered the draft with a 9.94 Relative Athletic Score (97th percentile explosiveness, 99th speed), 20 college sacks, All-Big 12 first-team honors, and a combine that kept him in mock drafts.
The Cowboys obtained the 23rd pick from Green Bay in the Micah Parsons trade, slid three spots, added two fourth-round picks, and surrendered pick 218.

History

Historical Context

The Dallas Cowboys, established in 1960, have a history of strategic trades to enhance their roster. In 2021, they traded for linebacker Micah Parsons using the 12th overall pick, significantly improving their defense. By 2026, they selected Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd pick, reflecting the ongoing importance of draft capital in building competitive NFL teams.

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Story summary

Cowboys selected UCF rusher Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
He entered the draft with a 9.94 Relative Athletic Score (97th percentile explosiveness, 99th speed), 20 college sacks, All-Big 12 first-team honors, and a combine that kept him in mock drafts.
The Cowboys obtained the 23rd pick from Green Bay in the Micah Parsons trade, slid three spots, added two fourth-round picks, and surrendered pick 218.

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