Cowboys Mock Draft: Defensive Overhaul

On April 1st, draft analyst Ian Cummings dropped a full 7-round mock for the 2026 NFL

draft, picking for all 32 teams without.

Any trades?

For the Dallas Cowboys, he starts strong in round 1 with Caleb Downs, the Ohio State

defensive back at pick 12.

Then at 20, he grabs Jacob Rodriguez, linebacker from Texas Tech.

These moves target defense early, filling key gaps with versatile playmakers.

Starting today, too, in round 3 at pick 92, Cummings selects Will Lee III from Texas A

and M, a tall cornerback with explosive speed and long arms.

That adds depth to the secondary right away.

Fans are buzzing about how these picks fit the Cowboys' needs, especially under defensive

coordinator, Christian Parker.

Downs could slide in as a nickel safety, shutting down passes with his smarts and mobility.

Rodriguez, despite his size, brings elite production and athleticism to the middle linebacker

spot, potentially calling plays from day 1.

Day 3 brings more intrigue with J. Sean Barham, edge for Michigan at 112, a flexible pass

rusher.

Then K-Lon Black, running back from Indiana at 152, Chandler Rivers, corner from Duke at

177, Lewis Bond, wide receiver from, Boston College at 180, and finally, Renee Konga,

defensive tackle from Louisville at 218.

These late round gyms could compete for roster spots from backfield depth to trench warriors.

Overall, this mock paints a defensive overhaul for Dallas, blending stars and sleepers that

could turn the unit around, come April.