🚨COWBOYS’ PREDICTIVE 2026 NFL DRAFT PICKS: A NEW DEFENSE AND A SURPRISE TIGHT END SELECTION! 👇

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are entering the final stretch of their draft preparations. With just over a week until the big day, the team is fine-tuning their strategy to bolster their roster—particularly their defense. The Cowboys have three top-100 picks, including an extra first-round pick from the Micah Parsons trade with the Packers prior to the 2025 season. This gives Dallas an opportunity to improve significantly on both sides of the ball. Here’s a Cowboys-specific mock draft based on my scouting of the 2026 class:

Round 1, Pick 12: The Dallas Cowboys Select Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy

The Dallas Cowboys have made it clear: their secondary needs help, and this year, they’re prepared to make a move. Jermod McCoy, a cornerback from Tennessee, is the ideal choice for the Cowboys’ defense. McCoy’s 2024 tape is elite, showcasing exceptional size, footwork, speed, and fluidity, making him one of the most well-rounded prospects at the position.

Although McCoy missed the 2025 season with a torn ACL, he has fully recovered and recently ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at his pro day. With no lingering injury concerns, McCoy’s stock is on the rise, and he may not even be available when the Cowboys pick at No. 12. If he is, he would be a perfect fit for Dallas’ defensive needs.

Other players in consideration for this pick included Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman and Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane, but McCoy’s combination of elite talent and fit for the Cowboys made this an easy decision.

Round 1, Pick 20: The Dallas Cowboys Select Miami EDGE Akheem Mesidor

After trading away Micah Parsons to Green Bay, the Cowboys have struggled to consistently generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Akheem Mesidor, a converted nose tackle who thrived off the edge for the Miami Hurricanes, is the perfect solution. Mesidor’s dominant play earned him All-American honors last season, and he has proven himself to be one of the top pass-rushers in the entire draft class.

His ability to get after the quarterback with relentless force would provide an immediate boost to the Cowboys’ defense. Other options for Dallas at this pick included Georgia DT Christen Miller, Ohio State DT Kayden McDonald, Indiana WR Omar Cooper Jr., and Arizona State OT Max Iheanachor, but Mesidor’s pass-rush ability was too good to pass up.

Round 3, Pick 92: The Cowboys Select Stanford TE Sam Roush

While tight end isn’t a pressing need for the Cowboys, Stanford’s Sam Roush is simply too good to pass on at this value. Known as one of the best blocking tight ends in the class, Roush combines excellent size and athleticism, making him a powerful presence in both the run game and as a tough cover over the middle of the field. He has the ability to improve the Cowboys’ offensive line with his blocking and provides a solid option in the passing game.

Roush’s elite blocking skills make him a valuable addition to Dallas’ offense, and he could eventually become a versatile weapon for the Cowboys down the line.

Final Thoughts on the Cowboys’ 2026 Draft: A Strong Defense and Depth Across the Board

With these picks, the Dallas Cowboys would drastically improve their defense and add valuable depth to their roster. The Jermod McCoy pick solidifies the secondary, while Akheem Mesidor brings much-needed pressure off the edge. Adding Sam Roush in the third round provides excellent value and depth at tight end, improving the offense in multiple areas.

The Cowboys’ strategy is clear: they’re focused on building a dominant defense while also adding key pieces to continue competing for a championship. If these picks come to fruition, the Cowboys will be positioned for a successful 2026 season.