Cowboys Trade Up for Edge Rusher Lawrence

0:00On April 24, Dallas Cowboys just pulled off a bold move in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft. They traded their 20th overall pick to division rival Philadelphia Eagles for the 23rd pick plus two fourth rounders. Numbers 1, 14 and 134. Then they snagged Ed rusher Malachi Lawrence from UCF right at 23. This trade let Dallas slide down just three spots, but stock up on extra ammo for day 2. The Eagles jumped up to grab wide receiver McCoy lemon, who wasn't even on the Cowboys radar. Meanwhile, Dallas filled a huge gap in their past rush after years of needing that explosive edge presence. Fans and analysts are buzzing because Lawrence is a 22 year old speed demon with violent moves. He posted career highs last season with 11 tackles for loss, 7 stacks and 2 force fumbles. Sure, he hasn't tackling misses, but his length and relentlessness make him a perfect fit next to what they already have. The pick gets a B plus grade as a bit of a reach per draft board, but he's high on their list and brings a fresh bill to the roster.

1:06That trade, straight A. Howie Roseman usually wins these, but Dallas got massive value moving down so little while helping a rival less than they think. Bottom line, the Cowboys broke their own rules trading with Philly, but they got exactly the past rush boost they craved, plus picks to build deeper. Smart chess and a league full of checkers.