Cowboys Mock Draft: Edge Rusher & Safety

0:00On March 5th, the Dallas Cowboys could be set for a defensive overhaul in the 2026 NFL draft, according to a new first-round mock. From analyst, Ryan McChrystal, holding the 12th and 20th picks, the team grabs Ed Ruscher, Ruben Bain Jr. from Miami, and safety Dylan Thineman from Oregon. This projection comes right as free agency heats up with the legal tampering period starting Monday. Earlier this week, McChrystal highlighted how these picks fill key gaps on the Cowboys revamped defense under new schemes. Bain brings elite past rushing skills to replace aging options like Jadevian Clowney, while the enemy bolsters the secondary amid expiring contracts. For players like Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker, Bains are already buzzing with excitement over this potential hole, picturing a unit that massed the long-term loss of Michael Parsons. The picks align perfectly with Dallas's multi-front approach, sparking talk of the team's aggressive spending promised by owner Jerry Jones.

1:00Meanwhile, Bain dominated his final college season with 54 tackles, 15 and a half for loss, and 9 and a half sacks, earning national awards. Donovan impressed at the scouting combine, posting 96 tackles, two picks, and versatile play in his Oregon year, making him a rising star. As the new league gear kicks off next week, and the drab heads to Pittsburgh from April 23 to 25, these mocks have Cowboys nation, dreaming of a dominant defense ready to contend.