Dallas Cowboys Eyeing Potential Game-Changer with No. 12 Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

PITTSBURGH, PA — The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and the Dallas Cowboys are in a prime position to make a big impact. With the No. 12 and No. 20 overall picks in the first round, the Cowboys could be set up for a major reshaping of their future, especially if they make two franchise-altering selections.

However, not everyone is convinced that the No. 12 pick will yield a star-level player, particularly on defense, as some teams picking in the top five are likely to secure elite talents. That said, Dallas Cowboys fans may have their eyes on a potential star who could fall just enough down the board to land in their lap—a future cornerstone for the team’s secondary.

Dallas Cowboys Could Land Ohio State DB Caleb Downs

One name that has been generating buzz around Dallas Cowboys fans is Caleb Downs, the talented defensive back from Ohio State University. According to NFL Network’s draft insider Daniel Jeremiah, there is a possibility that Downs, once considered a top safety prospect, could slide a bit further down the draft board than expected, potentially putting him in range for the Cowboys to select him at No. 12 overall.

“I wouldn’t give up hope on Downs for Dallas,” Jeremiah said during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan. “I would not, I would not put that one to rest just yet.”

Jeremiah went on to explain that Downs’ slight fall down the board could be a result of the growing undervaluation of the safety position, coupled with some concerns about Downs’ physical traits that may cause other teams to pass on him before Dallas gets the chance to make their selection.

A Strong Yet Underappreciated Talent

While it may seem like Jeremiah is being overly critical of Downs, he quickly clarified that the safety is still his top-rated player at the position. Jeremiah’s comments were more about explaining the reasons other teams may shy away from Downs, offering Dallas an opportunity to potentially steal a future star.

“Weird stuff happens in the safety position,” Jeremiah continued. “I don’t agree with it, but it has been pushed down to some degree. And then with Downs, you’re looking at someone who’s not big, he’s under six feet, a little over 200 pounds. He’s got short arms. He doesn’t have a ton of splash plays.”

Despite these concerns, it’s important to recognize that Downs’ skill set and achievements make him a dynamic and desirable prospect.

A Versatile Player with Impressive Numbers

Downs, who spent one year at Alabama before transferring to Ohio State, leaves college with an impressive résumé. He played in 44 games, finishing his college career with 257 total tackles (164 solo), 16 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, 12 pass breakups, and six interceptions. His all-around game has made him a force in the secondary.

What truly sets Downs apart, however, is his versatility. In addition to his defensive prowess, he also showed his explosive playmaking ability on special teams. Downs returned two punts for touchdowns during his time at Ohio State, showcasing his athleticism and knack for game-changing plays.

Downs was a two-time All-American and earned the 2025 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award, further cementing his status as one of the most accomplished defensive backs in college football.

Why Dallas Should Take a Chance on Downs

If Downs indeed falls to No. 12, the Dallas Cowboys could find themselves in an enviable position. The team’s defense, led by coordinator Dan Quinn, has shown significant improvement in recent years, but adding a talent like Caleb Downs to the secondary could elevate the unit even further.

Despite concerns about Downs’ size and physical attributes, his ability to cover ground, read plays, and create turnovers make him a highly valuable asset to any defense. Dallas has a long history of developing defensive backs into stars, and with the guidance of Quinn’s defensive scheme, Downs could become a key player in the Cowboys’ secondary for years to come.

Could This Be the Splash Dallas Has Been Waiting For?

While it remains to be seen whether the Cowboys will have the opportunity to select Downs at No. 12 overall, the potential to land a player of his caliber is tantalizing. If Downs does indeed slip down the draft board, Dallas may have the chance to make a major splash that could change the direction of their defense for years to come.

At a time when the Dallas Cowboys are looking for ways to improve their defense and add dynamic playmakers, Caleb Downs represents an opportunity to strike gold. Whether it’s at No. 12 or later in the draft, the Cowboys may just land a future star capable of anchoring their secondary and providing game-changing plays for years to come.

For now, fans will have to wait and see if the stars align for the Cowboys, but one thing is certain: if Downs is available at No. 12, the Cowboys could be adding a player capable of shaping the future of their defense.