Cowboys' Draft Focus: Culture & Defense

0:00On April 14, the Dallas Cowboys are in the final stretch before the 2026 NFL draft, just under two weeks out, with picks at 12 and 20 overall. Their laser focused on rebuilding a defense that hit rock bottom last year, stocking their board with 16 to 21st round talents who can, hit the ground running on the field and in the locker room. Steven Jones, the exec VP and director of Player Personnel, made it clear they're hunting for players who build the right identity and culture. After the worst defensive showing in franchise history during 2025, they need guys who buy in fully and bring that edge every day. The team shook things up by firing defensive coordinator Matt Eberfluss and bringing in Christian Parker to lead a fresh young staff. This crew is all about getting players locked in while modernizing schemes to keep pace with Brian Shottenheimer's top tier offense. Now, those incoming rookies can't fix everything alone, but they better understand the standard is sky high.

1:00Jones says it's about picking men who elevate the whole organization through competition and positive vibes. As the Cowboys finalize their board, expect them to double down on culture fits who turn this defense around fast, setting the tone for. Shottenheimer's vision across the roster.