Cowboys Mock Draft: Defensive Upgrades

0:00On March 9th, the Dallas Cowboys are eyeing big defensive upgrades in a new 2026 match draft from PFF analyst Max Chadwick. At the 12th overall pick, they grab cornerback Jermad McCoy from Tennessee. Later, at the 20th pick via the Green Bay Packers, they add edge-rusher Akim Mesador for Miami. These selections target the team's glaring needs in the secondary and pass rush. Last season, Dallas ranked 30th in total defense and dead last against the past, the worst mark in five years. The Cowboys brought in new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who had success with the Eagles and Broncos before. Now their prioritizing defense through free agency and the draft to turn things around. Fans and analysts see these picks as game changers. McCoy could anchor the secondary, pairing well with Parker's schemes. Parker would give the Cowboys a dynamic young duo on the edge, especially with four edge players hitting free agency and Donovan as a Rwaku, needing a solid partner.

1:02McCoy transferred from Oregon State to Tennessee, where a Tally 44 tackles, four picks and nine passes broken up before an ACL injury. Mesador, after starting at West Virginia, broke out at Miami with 63 tackles, 17 and a half for loss, 12 and a half sacks, and four forced fumbles last year. As the Cowboys gear up for free agency, this mock draft shows a clear path to a stronger defense heading into the 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh from April 23rd through 25th.