Full Breakdown
Cowboys Draft UCF Edge Rusher Malachi Lawrence at No. 23
4/25/2026, 9:46:45 AM
Defensive Context and Draft Moves
Dallas finished the 2025 season 10th-worst against the run and 22nd in sacks, despite ranking first in pressure rate. To address the edge, the team previously acquired Rashan Gary and later traded up for safety Caleb Downs at No. 11. Lawrence’s selection was intended to bolster a pass-rush group lacking consistent production.
Lawrence’s College Production and Combine Metrics
At UCF, Lawrence posted 28 career sacks, including 11 in his senior year, and earned first-team All-Big 12 honors. At the NFL Scouting Combine he ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, recorded a 40-inch vertical, a 10-foot-10-inch broad jump, and posted a 9.94 Relative Athletic Score, the 13th-best for defensive ends since 1987.
Fit Within Christian Parker’s Scheme
Defensive coordinator Christian Parker envisions Lawrence as a versatile edge rusher who can line up outside in a 3-4 base or inside on a four-man front. Analysts note his “elite first-step quickness” but caution that he “needs to play with better discipline and assignment integrity” in run defense, suggesting early use primarily on passing downs.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Lawrence’s “ability to rush the passer” and highlighted his “elite” first step. VP of player personnel Will McClay called him “a pressure player” who adds value to any scheme. Owner Jerry Jones expressed excitement about adding a player who “fits the prototype on the edge.” Former Alabama coach Nick Saban, speaking on a hot mic, labeled the pick a “reach” and projected Lawrence as a second-round talent.
Criticism & Conflicting Projections
Saban’s “reach” remark echoed broader analyst concerns about Lawrence’s run-defense technique and draft grade. While some mock drafts listed him as a first-round selection, many experts, including NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, projected him as a second-round pick, citing the need for further development despite his athletic upside.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Wow, this is a reach.” — Nick Saban, ESPN analyst
- “We love the ability to rush the passer,” — Brian Schottenheimer, Cowboys head coach
- “needs to play with better discipline and assignment integrity,” — Lance Zierlein, NFL.com analyst
- “You’ll get up out of your seat because of how much burst and explosiveness you’ll see in his play,” — Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network analyst
Outlook for the 2026 Season
Dallas plans to integrate Lawrence into pass-rush rotations while refining his run-defense technique. Early usage will focus on obvious passing situations. The team expects his development to be a key factor in improving the Cowboys’ sack production and overall defensive consistency in 2026.
