Summary
The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly planning to trade up in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft to select a top defensive player. They may use their picks at No. 12 and No. 20 overall to get a highly regarded edge rusher compared to former star Micah Parsons, who they traded to the Green Bay Packers.
Key Facts
- The Cowboys may trade their 12th and 20th overall picks to move higher in the 2026 draft.
- They are interested in a defensive edge rusher similar to Micah Parsons, who was traded to the Packers last year.
- Parsons was an All-Pro pass rusher and made NFL history with at least 10 sacks in each of his first five seasons.
- Dallas struggled defensively after trading Parsons, finishing last in scoring defense in 2025.
- Analyst Daniel Jeremiah ranks Arvell Reese from Ohio State as the 5th best prospect, noting his versatility and potential impact.
- The Cowboys also acquired defensive tackle Quinnen Williams last season to strengthen their defense.
- Dallas’ trade with Green Bay gave them the 2026 and 2027 first-round picks used in this draft strategy.
- The 2026 NFL Draft first round will take place on April 23 in Pittsburgh.
