Pittsburgh, January 14, 2026
The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for a significant moment in their franchise history by holding two top-20 picks in the upcoming NFL Draft. With the 12th pick and the 20th pick acquired through a trade involving linebacker Micah Parsons, the Cowboys have a unique opportunity to refine their roster. Potential prospects include Sonny Styles, Caleb Downs, and David Bailey, who could address critical team needs. The draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh and highlights a pivotal moment for the Cowboys and the local community.
What are the Dallas Cowboys’ draft positions in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Cowboys hold the 12th and 20th overall picks in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
How did the Cowboys acquire the 20th overall pick?
The 20th pick was obtained through the trade involving linebacker Micah Parsons, who was sent to the Green Bay Packers.
Who are some potential draft prospects for the Cowboys?
Potential prospects include linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State, safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State, and edge rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech.
When and where is the 2026 NFL Draft scheduled?
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Dallas Cowboys Look to Strengthen Roster with 2026 Draft Picks
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for a pivotal moment in their franchise history with the recent acquisition of two top-20 picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With their own selection at No. 12 and the Green Bay Packers’ pick at No. 20—acquired through the trade involving linebacker Micah Parsons—the Cowboys find themselves in an advantageous position. This marks the first time since 2008 that the team has had multiple first-round selections, offering a potent opportunity to refine their roster.
For local entrepreneurs and fans alike, the excitement surrounding the draft embodies the innovative spirit that defines Texas. With a strong focus on entrepreneurial growth and resilience, the Cowboys’ decisions during the draft will not only impact the team but also resonate throughout the Dallas community as they aim to build a successful future. Limited regulation and a supportive sports culture create an environment ripe for achievement, mirroring the challenges and successes faced by local businesses.
Potential Draft Selections for the Cowboys
Equipped with two high-value picks, the Cowboys are positioned to bolster their lineup by addressing several critical areas. Here’s a look at three promising prospects who could be considered for selection:
1. Sonny Styles – Linebacker, Ohio State
The 6’4″ Sonny Styles has transitioned from a safety position to a linebacker role, highlighting his versatility and athletic prowess. In his final college season, he notched 16.5 tackles for loss while contributing to Ohio State’s national championship victory. Styles’ impressive ability to cover ground makes him a compelling candidate to enhance the Cowboys’ defensive unit.
2. Caleb Downs – Safety, Ohio State
Caleb Downs, a two-time All-American and national champion, brings exceptional skill and adaptability to the table. With experience from both Alabama and Ohio State, he stands out as a high-caliber safety, an asset that aligns with the Cowboys’ need for depth in the secondary.
3. David Bailey – Edge Rusher, Texas Tech
With a stellar college career boasting 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss, David Bailey earned All-American honors and established himself as a dynamic edge rusher. His performance in the Orange Bowl against Oregon highlighted his potential as a game-defining player, making him an attractive option for the Cowboys as they seek a game-changer to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Historical Context
The last instance of the Cowboys having two top-20 picks was in 2005, which resulted in the selection of future Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware at No. 11 and solid contributor Marcus Spears at No. 20. This historical precedent underscores the potential impact of their current draft position, emphasizing the franchise’s rich tradition of strategic drafting that has shaped its success.
Draft Details
The 2026 NFL Draft is slated for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With the Cowboys holding selections at Nos. 12 and 20, they are poised to make a significant impact in shaping their roster with highly sought-after talent.
| Draft Position | Pick Number | Prospect | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Round | 12th | Sonny Styles | Linebacker | Ohio State |
| First Round | 20th | Caleb Downs | Safety | Ohio State |
| First Round | 20th | David Bailey | Edge Rusher | Texas Tech |
Conclusion
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, their dual selections offer a tremendous opportunity to enhance their roster while reinforcing the spirit of competition that drives local sports and businesses. With a focus on building a solid foundation for future success, the community is rallying behind the Cowboys as they navigate this crucial milestone. Engaging in the local economy and supporting Texas entrepreneurs can inspire broader growth, encouraging continued innovation and resilience across the board.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
