Cowboys Targeting Stud Corners, Linebackers in Draft

0:00On April 20th, the Dallas Cowboys are locked in on picks 12 and 20 in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, with plenty of talent to grab right there. They're zeroing in on San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson and Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez as prime targets for that 20th spot. According to draft insider, Tony Pauline. Word is, the Cowboys love the idea of trading back from 20 to snack extra picks or upgrade later ones, while still landing one of those two studs. Who could start day one? Dallas has glaring holes at corner and linebacker, heading into the draft. At corner, Shavan Rebels' injury riddled rookie year leaves questions, and Doran Blan's been battling injuries and inconsistency. Linebacker-wise, they whiffed on free agents and need a green dot leader next to DeMarbian overshown. Both player stocks are skyrocketing. Johnson with his 4.4 speed, size, versatility inside and out, plus top coverage in Blitz grades.

1:01From last season, Rodriguez brings elite athleticism, football smarts, four picks, a pick six, and the best PFF grades in run defense and coverage among linebackers. If the Cowboys pull this off, trading back or not, they feel key gaps with immediate impact guys and build a deeper roster for the long haul.