Cowboys Gain Draft Ammunition with Compensatory Picks

0:00On March 9th, the Dallas Cowboys just got some welcome draft news unrelated to free agency. They landed two compensatory picks in the 5th round for the 2026 NFL draft, specifically overall selections, number 177, and number 180. These come from losing defensive end to Marcus Lawrence and cornerback Jordan Lewis in free agency. Earlier projections had the Cowboys possibly getting 1-5th and 1-6th, but a hotter free agency market bumped them up to two fits. Experts like those that over the cap had hinted at higher league-wide numbers, and that turned out spot on. Fans and analysts see this as a nice boost to Dallas's draft hall, especially after trading away their second round pick for defensive tackle, Quinnin. Williams and their third for wider receiver George Pickens. It gives them more ammo to build depth without spending big in free agency. Now their 2026 draft totals 8 picks, including two first rounders at 12 and 20, a fourth at 1-12, 3-5th starting, at 152, and a pair of 7s at 221 and 225.

1:06With these extra selections in hand, the Cowboys can focus on smart trades and development as they gear up for a stronger roster next season.