Dallas TX, December 30, 2025
The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for the upcoming NFL draft, holding two crucial first-round picks that provide them with significant flexibility. Currently positioned 14th, they have the option to draft promising young talent or trade their picks for additional assets. Additionally, they acquired a second pick from the Green Bay Packers, which could enhance their strategic options. This dual-pick capability allows the Cowboys to address immediate needs while planning for future growth.
Dallas Cowboys Eye Strategic Moves in 2026 NFL Draft
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, holding two pivotal first-round picks that could significantly influence the team’s direction for years to come.
Current Draft Position
As of Week 17, the Cowboys sit with the 14th overall pick in the first round, backed by a record of 7-8-1. This middle-tier positioning provides the team with the flexibility to draft a promising young player or potentially trade the pick for additional assets that could enhance their roster. It is important to note that the Cowboys’ draft position might fluctuate slightly based on the outcomes of Week 18, as several teams are vying closely in terms of their records. A victory could see them drop a few draft spots, while a loss might elevate their selection slightly.
Second First-Round Pick from Green Bay
In a notable advantage, the Cowboys also own a second first-round pick, currently projected at No. 21 overall, which they acquired from the Green Bay Packers in the trade involving standout linebacker Micah Parsons. The ultimate position of this pick will hinge on the Packers’ success in the playoffs; if they make a deep postseason run, the pick will move closer to the end of the first round, offering Dallas more strategic leverage.
Strategic Opportunities
Holding two first-round picks grants the Cowboys a multitude of strategic strategies to explore:
- Stay Put: The team could opt to select two immediate contributors who would address pressing needs on the roster.
- Trade Up: They may choose to package their picks to move higher in the draft order, aiming to secure an elite prospect that could make a significant impact.
- Trade Down: Conversely, they might consider moving back in the order to amass additional picks, enhancing depth across various positions.
This flexibility empowers the Cowboys to align their draft strategy with both imminent needs and long-term aspirations.
Full 2026 NFL Draft Order (Top 20 Picks)
As it stands through Week 17, the first-round draft order is as follows:
| Pick | Team | Record | Strength of Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Las Vegas Raiders | 2-14 | .544 |
| 2 | New York Giants | 3-13 | .531 |
| 3 | New York Jets | 3-13 | .548 |
| 4 | Tennessee Titans | 3-13 | .576 |
| 5 | Arizona Cardinals | 3-13 | .577 |
| 6 | Cleveland Browns | 4-12 | .494 |
| 7 | Washington Commanders | 4-12 | .504 |
| 8 | New Orleans Saints | 6-10 | .491 |
| 9 | Kansas City Chiefs | 6-10 | .511 |
| 10 | Cincinnati Bengals | 6-10 | .520 |
| 11 | Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta Falcons) | 6-9 | .498 |
| 12 | Miami Dolphins | 7-9 | .487 |
| 13 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 7-9 | .530 |
| 14 | Dallas Cowboys | 7-8-1 | .430 |
| 15 | Detroit Lions | 8-8 | .493 |
| 16 | Baltimore Ravens | 8-8 | .507 |
| 17 | Minnesota Vikings | 8-8 | .515 |
| 18 | Indianapolis Colts (via New York Jets) | 8-8 | .537 |
| 19 | Carolina Panthers | 8-8 | .521 |
| 20 | Pittsburgh Steelers | 9-7 | .513 |
As the Cowboys prepare for the critical left turn represented by the 2026 NFL Draft, their dual-positioning strategy offers a robust foundation for enhancing the team’s future performance and competitiveness. This upcoming draft could be crucial for Dallas as they seek to strengthen their ranks and tackle challenges in the following season.
FAQ
What is the Dallas Cowboys’ current draft position for the 2026 NFL Draft?
As of Week 17, the Dallas Cowboys hold the 14th overall pick in the first round, with a season record of 7-8-1. This mid-first-round position offers flexibility to select a promising prospect or trade the pick for additional assets. The exact position may shift slightly based on Week 18 outcomes, as several teams have similar records. A win could move the Cowboys back a few spots, while a loss might push them slightly higher.
Do the Dallas Cowboys have any additional first-round picks for the 2026 NFL Draft?
Yes, the Cowboys possess a second first-round selection, currently projected at No. 21 overall. This pick originates from the Green Bay Packers, acquired in the trade involving Micah Parsons. The final position of this pick will depend on the Packers’ postseason performance; a deep playoff run would move the pick closer to the end of the first round.
What strategic options do the Dallas Cowboys have with their two first-round picks?
Holding two first-round picks provides the Cowboys with several strategic options: Stay Put—select two immediate contributors to bolster the roster; Trade Up—package picks to move up and secure an elite prospect; Trade Down—move back to acquire additional picks and depth. These options allow the Cowboys to tailor their draft strategy to address specific team needs and long-term goals.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| First-Round Picks | 14th overall pick (own), 21st overall pick (from Green Bay) |
| Current Record | 7-8-1 |
| Strategic Options | Stay Put, Trade Up, Trade Down |
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