The Dallas Cowboys have officially selected Malachi Lawrence, the standout edge rusher from UCF, with the No. 23 overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

This marks the highest draft selection for any defensive player in UCF history, representing a major milestone for the Knights football program.

Lawrence is being hailed by fans and analysts alike as the true blockbuster addition for the Cowboys on draft night.

He recorded 20 sacks during his college career, including 19.5 sacks over his final three seasons.

In 2025, Lawrence exploded with seven sacks, 11 tackles for loss and 28 total tackles while earning First-team All-Big 12 honors.

The Cowboys executed a smart trade-down from No. 20 to acquire the No. 23 pick and two additional fourth-round selections from the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Eagles immediately used the No. 20 pick to select wide receiver Makai Lemon out of USC.

With Lawrence on board, Dallas adds immediate firepower to a defensive front that has lacked a true edge presence.

Since Micah Parsons was traded to the Green Bay Packers prior to the 2025 season, the Cowboys have been searching for a long-term solution at the position.

The recent signing of veteran edge rusher Rashan Gary from the Packers served as important preparation for this moment.

Lawrence brings the ideal combination of size at 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds with elite burst and relentless pass-rush ability.

He ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and possesses a diverse set of pass-rush moves.

Many NFL analysts view the No. 23 selection as outstanding value given Lawrence’s projected ceiling.

Cowboys fans across social media are buzzing with excitement over this high-upside edge rusher.

They believe Lawrence will quickly blend into the defense and generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Team executives see him as a foundational piece who can anchor the pass rush for years to come.

With the additions of both Gary and Lawrence, Dallas is clearly committed to rebuilding its edge presence.

Lawrence is expected to sign his rookie contract and report to training camp ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

He is projected to make an immediate impact and compete for a starting role in the Cowboys’ defensive front.

The No. 23 pick is not only a strategic move but also a major statement of intent for a Super Bowl push.

Overall, the Dallas Cowboys have enjoyed a strong start to the 2026 NFL Draft by adding two high-quality defensive playmakers.