Full Breakdown
Dallas Cowboys Draft UCF Edge Rusher Malachi Lawrence with 23rd Overall Pick
4/24/2026, 12:19:12 PM
Selection Overview
On April 23, 2026 the Dallas Cowboys selected University of Central Florida edge rusher Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd overall pick, addressing the need for a versatile pass-rusher after Micah Parsons departed.
Trade Context
The selection used the pick the Cowboys received from the Green Bay Packers in the 2025 Micah Parsons trade, which also sent a 2027 first-rounder to Dallas. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said the team was satisfied with the player the Cowboys chose with that pick.
Background and College Production
Lawrence played five seasons at UCF, finishing 10th all-time with 20 career sacks. In his final three years he logged 19.5 sacks, 27.5 tackles for loss, earned All-Big 12 first-team honors, and posted a 13.2 % drop-back pressure rate, ranking among the nation’s top ten.
Combine Metrics and Athletic Profile
At the NFL scouting combine he measured 6-4 3/8 , 253 lb, ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash (1.59-second 10-yard split) and earned a 9.94 Relative Athletic Score—above the 97th percentile for explosiveness and the 99th percentile for edge-rusher speed.
Scouting Assessment: Strengths and Development Areas
Scouts praise his multi-move pass rush, elite first step and 33½-inch arms, but note run-defense technique, inconsistent tackling and a lean frame. Adding roughly ten pounds of functional weight is widely viewed as essential for a full-time role.
Official Statements & Responses
The Cowboys said Lawrence’s versatility fits their shift to a primarily 3-4 front and that “the Cowboys believe they can unlock him in Dallas.” The team called him a “ready-made pass rusher” who can help fill the void left by Parsons.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts warn his current size may limit edge setting against power-run schemes and that his tackling must improve before he can be trusted as a three-down player. Bulk is seen as a prerequisite for his upside.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Mock drafts placed Lawrence anywhere from the 20th to the 35th overall pick, reflecting uncertainty about his exact draft position. Source listings differ on his weight—some cite 253 lb, others 247 lb—indicating a minor reporting discrepancy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The player we got with that pick,” — Brian Gutekunst, Green Bay Packers GM
- “94 (out of 10), finishing above the 97th percentile in explosiveness grades and in the 99th percentile in edge rusher speed.” — Cowboyswire
- “Lawrence is an ascending prospect with rush polish and pro traits that should be enticing for pressure-hungry defenses.” — Cowboyswire
- “He's reasonably explosive and agile off the snap, with the lateral quickness to off-set and stack counters, and the power channel to drive through blockers when properly aligned.” — Cowboyswire
What’s Next
Lawrence will report to rookie minicamp in May, where coaches expect him to compete for a rotational edge-rusher role. If he adds the suggested mass and refines his run defense, projections anticipate a 25-plus-snap contribution by his second season.
