Inside The Star
With two first-round draft picks in 2026, the Cowboys could fix their defense fast. Here’s how different combinations of Caleb Downs, Keldric Faulk, David Bailey, and Daylen Everette fit.
The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a rare advantage — two first-round selections, currently projected at No. 12 and No. 25 overall.
After a 2025 season plagued by defensive inconsistency and poor third-down efficiency, this draft could be a turning point.
The Cowboys have a chance to fix multiple weaknesses at once and finally build a defense that matches their high-powered offense.
This way-too-early mock draft highlights four current college stars who perfectly fit Dallas’ defensive needs — and explores which combinations of them could maximize the Cowboys’ roster potential heading into 2026.
A physical, instinctive safety with elite range and football IQ, Caleb Downs could become the leader Dallas has long lacked on the back end.
The Ohio State standout diagnoses plays quickly, hits with authority, and brings the same kind of command to a defense that quarterbacks bring to an offense.
He’s the kind of player who instantly raises the standard for everyone around him — something the Cowboys have missed since Darren Woodson’s prime years.
Keldric Faulk looks the part of a prototypical NFL edge rusher. At 6’6”, 275 pounds, he blends power and length with the flexibility to play in multiple fronts.
Faulk’s ability to set the edge and collapse the pocket makes him a dream fit for Matt Eberflus’ defensive scheme. He’d give Dallas both physicality in the run game and consistent pressure off the edge — two areas where they’ve faltered.
An in-state product with relentless energy, David Bailey has developed into one of the most productive pass rushers in the Big 12. At 6’3”, 250 lbs, he wins with explosiveness, leverage, and non-stop effort.
Bailey’s high motor and local ties would make him a natural fit in Dallas. He’s the kind of developmental first-rounder who could rotate early and grow into a full-time starter.
Daylen Everette is the type of long, physical corner the Cowboys covet. The Georgia standout combines length (6’1”) with quick feet, smooth hips, and an aggressive mentality.
Everette can play press or zone with equal comfort — a perfect complement to DaRon Bland, who thrives inside. Together, they could give Dallas its most complete cornerback pairing in years.
1. Caleb Downs + Keldric Faulk — Defensive Balance
This combination builds the defense from the inside out. Downs commands the secondary while Faulk provides power up front. It’s the most well-rounded pairing available, addressing both coverage and pass-rush consistency in one draft.
2. Keldric Faulk + David Bailey — Edge Domination
If Dallas wants to rebuild its defensive line identity, this...
