NFL draft
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The Dallas Cowboys could strike a trade ahead of the NFL draft.
The good news is the Dallas Cowboys have a high pick in the 2026 NFL draft. This is also bad news as it means Dallas’ record indicates the roster has plenty of holes to address this offseason.
The Cowboys have the No. 12 overall pick in the upcoming draft, but there is plenty of NFL rumors that Dallas could be a candidate to trade up. CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards’ latest NFL mock draft has the Cowboys striking a trade with the Cleveland Browns.
Dallas moves up to land the No. 6 pick, while Cleveland slides back to No. 12 while adding some draft capital as part of the deal. The Cowboys secure the No. 6 pick along with future fourth- and sixth-round selections.
Cleveland lands the No. 12 pick as well as two future second-round selections in the CBS Sports’ trade pitch. Who would the Cowboys potentially target with this type of move?
Let’s explore the latest Cowboys rumors ahead of the NFL draft.
Cowboys Rumors: Ohio State Star Caleb Downs Could Make Sense as Trade Up Target in the NFL Draft
One name who makes a lot of sense for the Cowboys is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. The star is a 2-time All-American and was also named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2025. Here’s the case for Dallas trading up for Downs.
“Jerry Jones is going to do what Jerry Jones wants,” Edwards wrote in a February 16, 2026, story titled, “2026 NFL mock draft: Cowboys go all-in on defense with top-10 trade as Jets, Steelers pass on QBs.” “Patience is wearing thin, and the acquisition of 28-year-old Quinnen Williams, to go along with nearly 33-year-old quarterback Dak Prescott, suggests the team is looking for immediate results.
“Coming off a Super Bowl where defense ruled the roost and safety Nick Emmanwori was an impact performer, Caleb Downs’ value may be as high as ever. If the Cowboys need an impact player, their options are dwindling in a sparse class. Details of the trade will be discussed with Cleveland’s pick.”
Caleb Downs Described as a ‘Human Missile’ Ahead of the NFL Draft
Downs was a key member of Ohio State’s national championship team in 2024. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler has Downs ranked as his No. 4 overall prospect in the 2026 NFL draft, meaning Dallas would likely need to trade up to have a chance at landing the safety.
“A human missile, Downs jumps off the tape because of his fast, competitive play style,” Brugler detailed in a February 10, article titled, “2026 NFL Draft rankings: Who are the top 100 prospects in this year’s class?” “Despite his average size, he is an elite tackler who fills with impressive body control and strength at contact. He showed the same high-level reaction skills in coverage.
“Downs sees the field like a chess board. He is one of the better safeties I have ever evaluated.”
The Cowboys also have the No. 20 overall pick in the first round as part of the Micah Parsons trade. It may be challenging for Dallas to be able to move up in the draft without parting with this second first rounder.