Cowboys Draft New LB Talent, Eye Contender Status

0:00On April 25th, the Dallas Cowboys came into the 2026 offseason knowing their defense was trash, one of the worst in team history. Over the first two days of the NFL draft, they grabbed Ohio State Safety, Caleb Downs, UCF Edge R Usher, Malachi Lawrence, and Michigan Linebacker, Jay Sean Barham. They also traded a fifth-round pick to the 49ers for Linebacker D-Winters, stacking fresh talent to flip the script. Linebacker was the one spot they hadn't touched yet, so snagging winters and barham hits that need dead-on. Winters bring 17 starts, rare speed, and vet presence as a potential green dot leader. Barham's versatile with inside outside skills and that physical edge, starting him inside for now. Jerry Jones is pumped, saying they've transformed the defense after years of grinding, bringing new energy and guys who can own it. Coaches like Brian Shottenheimer rave about the athleticism and fit in their scheme, while Steven Jones admits the LB room was bare, just two chairs.

1:02Before this, enter 34-year-old defensive coordinator Christian Parker, the offseason's real gem, called a superstar. He's got four new pieces already, but they're still building, eyeing competition at Linebacker. With three fourth-round picks and a seventh tomorrow, they're set to land third or fourth-round graded starters on defense or offense, pushing this, unit toward contender status.