The Dallas Cowboys hold two first-round selections in the 2026 NFL draft at No. 12 and No. 20, giving them strategic flexibility as they prepare to strengthen their roster. Headed by owner Jerry Jones, the team appears focused on bolstering their defense, with a particular emphasis on the secondary as they look ahead to the upcoming season.
Trade Strategy to Increase Overall Draft Capital
Instead of using both first-round picks to select top prospects immediately, the Cowboys could opt to trade down to acquire additional choices in the later rounds. Currently, Dallas lacks selections in the second, third, and sixth rounds, making an expanded draft portfolio a valuable asset. According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, the Cowboys are expected to trade the No. 12 pick to the New York Jets, receiving in return the No. 16 pick along with fourth- and seventh-round selections in 2026, thereby augmenting their draft resources.
Focusing on Defensive Backfield Through Key Selections
Utilizing the 16th overall pick acquired from the Jets, Dallas selected Dillon Thieneman, a safety from Oregon. Reid emphasized the need for upgrades in the Cowboys’ defensive backfield, noting:
“The Cowboys gave up the most points per game in the NFL last season (30.1) and the third-most yards per contest (377.0). They started to remake their secondary last season, and adding Thieneman, an active defender with positional and scheme versatility, would continue that process,”
He also added,
“Dallas specializes in two-high safety looks, and Thieneman is an excellent processor who can close on plays in a hurry. Dallas forced only 12 turnovers in 2025, and Thieneman has the ability to be a ball hawk while bringing physicality when stepping down against the run.”
Following that, the Cowboys used their original No. 20 pick to choose Avieon Terrell, a cornerback from Clemson. Reid described Terrell as a player with greater potential than his draft projection might suggest, explaining,
“The Cowboys double dip in the secondary with Terrell, a prospect who scouts keep saying should go higher than expected. His physical mentality and competitive demeanor are easy to see, and he had one of the better on-field workouts of any corner at the combine,”
He further commented on Terrell’s fit within the defensive scheme:
“The Cowboys have holes to fill in the secondary around standout corner DaRon Bland, and Terrell would fit perfectly in the back end of new coordinator Christian Parker’s scheme.”
Alternative Mock Draft Predictions Reflect Similar Defensive Focus
In contrast, The Dallas Morning News Cowboys reporter Joseph Hoyt also anticipates the team will prioritize secondary players in this draft cycle. However, Hoyt’s mock projects the Cowboys selecting Thieneman and Terrell at their original picks No. 12 and No. 20, rather than trading down as suggested by Reid’s scenario.
Defensive Reinforcements Poised to Impact Team’s Future
The Cowboys’ pursuit of defensive backs like Dillon Thieneman and Avieon Terrell underscores a clear strategy to address vulnerabilities in the secondary that contributed to last season’s defensive struggles. Enhancing this area could significantly reduce the points and yardage allowed, providing a more balanced and competitive team. Whether through a trade down or holding steady at their first-round spots, Dallas is aiming to assemble a stronger defensive unit for the coming seasons.
