Cowboys' Inside Linebacker Dilemma: Draft or Trade?

0:00On April 8th, Dallas Cowboys heading into the 2026 NFL Draft with a massive hole at inside linebacker and it's screaming their top. Priority to everyone. They've got just three guys there now, Shamar James, Justin Barron, and Demarvian Overshone who's nursing that one good leg. Free agents like Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn are gone, and Morris Lufos shifting to outside. This leaves them exposed, forcing needs-based picks or pricey trades. They've patched other spots this offseason, swapping defensive tackles, and bolstering the secondary, but inside linebacker got zero love. Sure, they've got questions at Edge R Usher, Cornerback, Offensive Tackle with Tyler Gaiden and Terence Steel, plus wide receiver of George Pickens, Bolts, and an aging defensive tackle group. But most teams carry those. Inside linebacker is the glaring weak link. Fans and analysts are buzzing about the draft risk, especially at their 12th overall pick. Ohio State's sunny styles looks like a blue chip fit, but grabbing him means trading up past teams like the Giants or Chiefs holding picks 5 through 9.

1:08That desperation vibe kills bargaining power, and settling for lesser linebackers like CJ, Alan or Jacob Rodriguez might mean reaching too early. Front office try for vets like Nicobie Dean, but missed out, and now the free agent pulls Thin. Guys like Bobby Ocariki, who turns 30 this summer after a solid prior year, or Bobby Wagner could bring instant stability way better than the current trio. Even post-draft vets are in play, per their strategy. Signing one now by its flexibility, less than chase best player available without panic, and shores of the roster for the long hole. Smart move to balance the board before draft night hits. Stay locked in with NFL News Today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with The Story.