The Dallas Cowboys Target Pass Rusher and Linebacker Help in 2026 NFL Draft to Fix Defense

The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 NFL draft with the league’s worst defense by EPA per play, explosive plays allowed, and points per drive. Their most urgent demand is an additional pass rusher, as Rashan Gary and Donovan Ezeiruaku provide depth but lack every-down dominance. The Cowboys could trade up from picks 12 and 20 into the top five for Arvell Reese of Ohio State or David Bailey of Texas Tech, or they could wait for Rueben Bain Jr. Of Miami or pivot to Caleb Downs or Sonny Styles, both from Ohio State. Linebacker depth is critically thin. Marist Liufau is shifting to 3-4 outside linebacker in Christian Parker’s scheme, leaving the off-ball group with only DeMarvion Overshown (recovering from a major 2024 knee injury), fifth-round rookie Shemar James, and 2025 undrafted free agent Justin Barron. CJ Allen of Georgia and Jacob Rodriguez of Texas Tech are unlikely to be available at pick 20, and many linebackers will be gone by pick 92. If Sonny Styles is not on the board at 12, Dallas may need to trade back from 20 to secure a starting linebacker at fair value — though trading up for Styles remains an option. Last year, the Cowboys similarly prioritized defensive aid in the draft but missed on several early projections, highlighting the risk of rigid planning in a volatile prospect landscape.

How the Cowboys could address their secondary needs

The secondary likewise requires attention, though specific targets are not detailed in the source. With aging veterans and inconsistent play in the defensive backfield, Dallas may look to add coverage versatility and ball skills in the middle rounds. Safeties and nickel corners capable of matching up against tight ends and slot receivers could elevate a unit that struggled in coverage metrics last season.

What flexibility gives the Cowboys in draft strategy

Dallas holds multiple early picks, enabling trade-ups or trade-downs based on player availability. Their approach hinges on identifying premium value at positions of need rather than rigidly adhering to a fixed board. This adaptability could prove critical if a run on edge rushers or linebackers forces a pivot mid-draft.

Can the Cowboys trade up for a top pass rusher?

Yes, combining picks 12 and 20 could position them to move into the top five for prospects like Arvell Reese or David Bailey, though it would require significant capital.

Is Sonny Styles a realistic target at pick 12?

He is a possibility, but if he is not available, Dallas may consider trading back to acquire a linebacker later although gaining additional draft capital.

How urgent is the linebacker need for Dallas?

Extremely — beyond DeMarvion Overshown’s injury status, the roster lacks proven starting options at off-linebacker, making early investment in the position a priority.