Cowboys pick Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence in 2026 NFL Draft

The Cowboys selected Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This is a big change for their defense.
By Newsroom | Sports, NFL |

SAFETY CALEB DOWNS, EDGE RUSHER MALACHI LAWRENCE HIGHLIGHT INITIAL HAUL

The Dallas Cowboys appear to have made significant defensive upgrades during the initial stages of the 2026 NFL Draft. The club landed safety Caleb Downs with the 11th overall pick and subsequently acquired edge rusher Malachi Lawrence at No. 23. Reports indicate a generally positive reception to these selections, with some analysts suggesting the team has already achieved success.

==Insider evaluations point to Downs as a top-tier prospect, potentially the best overall talent in this year's draft class.== His perceived intelligence and ability to impact games were frequently cited. Lawrence, meanwhile, is seen as a player who could address the Cowboys' defensive needs, particularly in pressuring the quarterback.

DRAFT SELECTIONS AND GRADES

The Cowboys' draft strategy, according to multiple reports, focused on bolstering the defense.

  • Round 1, Pick 11: Caleb Downs, Safety, Ohio State. Downs was considered one of the Cowboys' highest-rated prospects.

  • "Dallas Cowboys have already won the draft." - Peter Schrager, ESPN NFL Reporter

  • "The Cowboys get ‘star nickel in Caleb Downs’."

  • Downs is described as an "alpha" with "immense juice on each snap," possessing strong coverage instincts.

  • Round 1, Pick 23: Malachi Lawrence, Edge Rusher, UCF. The Cowboys traded down from the 11th pick to acquire additional draft capital before selecting Lawrence.

  • "After trading up to secure Downs, the Cowboys move back with their second selection and still secure a player who can further change the complexion of their defense."

  • Lawrence's ability to "attack the football when he gets after the quarterback" was specifically noted.

LATER ROUND PICKS ADD DEPTH

Further into the draft, Dallas continued to address defensive needs.

  • Round 3, Pick 92: Jaishawn Barham, OLB, Michigan.

  • Grade: A-

  • Round 4, Pick 114: Devin Moore, CB, Florida.

  • Grade: A-

  • This pick continues the team's efforts to build up their defense.

  • Round 4, Pick 137: LT Overton, Edge, Alabama.

  • Grade: A-

  • This move is framed as a rebuilding effort for the edge rush rotation.

CONTEXT AND TEAM NEEDS

These draft choices come as the Cowboys look to improve a defense that faced criticism last season. The acquisition of Downs and Lawrence is viewed as a direct response to these shortcomings. The team also made moves to trade away defensive players, including Micah Parsons last season, necessitating reinforcements.

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The organization, under the guidance of Jerry Jones, appears to have navigated the draft with a clear focus on defensive talent. After a period of perceived draft-night struggles, these early selections have drawn a more favorable assessment from various media outlets. The overall draft approach is characterized by a desire to enhance the defensive unit's capabilities heading into the next season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who did the Dallas Cowboys pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Cowboys picked safety Caleb Downs with the 11th overall pick and edge rusher Malachi Lawrence with the 23rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Q: Why did the Cowboys draft Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence?
The team wanted to make their defense stronger. Caleb Downs is seen as a top player who can help cover other teams' players. Malachi Lawrence is expected to help pressure the opposing team's quarterback.
Q: How did experts react to the Cowboys' first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Many experts liked the picks, with some saying the Cowboys have already won the draft. They think Downs is a great player and Lawrence can help change their defense.
Q: What other defensive players did the Cowboys draft in the 2026 NFL Draft?
In later rounds, the Cowboys also drafted Jaishawn Barham (OLB), Devin Moore (CB), and LT Overton (Edge). These picks also focus on improving the defense.