The Dallas Cowboys' offseason priorities were as clear as a Texas summer sky: revamp a defense that let an elite offense slip through its fingers in 2025. The first big shake-up?
Swapping out defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus for Christian Parker. With roots in the Vic Fangio coaching tree, Parker's arrival could be the catalyst for a defensive turnaround.
But coaching alone won't cut it-this unit needs reinforcements. With the major wave of free agency behind them, the Cowboys are setting their sights on the 2026 NFL Draft.
Armed with two first-round picks, Jerry Jones and his team have a golden opportunity to reshape the defense. If they play their cards right, Dallas could emerge as a formidable contender in the NFC, eyeing a division title in 2026. Let’s dive into the projected starting defense as it stands post-free agency.
Projected Starting Defense: Dallas Cowboys
Defensive Line: Quinnen Williams, Otito Ogbonnia, Kenny Clark
With Osa Odighizuwa now donning a 49ers jersey, Dallas' defensive line is undergoing a transformation. Otito Ogbonnia, a recent acquisition, is a 6'4", 320-pound nose tackle who proved his mettle with the Chargers in 2024.
Kenny Clark, who joined the Cowboys last year, delivered his best performance since 2023, tallying three sacks and nine quarterback hits. Meanwhile, Quinnen Williams, who joined mid-season, added 1.5 sacks and nine quarterback hits in just seven games.
With two first-round draft picks, more changes could be on the horizon for this line.
Outside Linebackers: Rashan Gary, Donovan Ezeiruaku
Rashan Gary, acquired from the Packers, brings a consistent pass-rushing threat, having recorded 7.5 sacks for two consecutive seasons. Though he tapered off towards the end of last year, his 20 quarterback hits underscore his disruptive potential.
Donovan Ezeiruaku, a 2025 second-round pick, showed promise in his rookie season with two sacks and 12 quarterback hits. At just 23, Ezeiruaku is poised to solidify his role and possibly break out in 2026.
Inside Linebackers: DeMarvion Overshown, Shemar James
DeMarvion Overshown returned from a significant injury to play six games last year. His raw talent is undeniable, and the Cowboys hope he can be a consistent presence in 2026.
Rookie Shemar James notched 91 tackles in 14 games, demonstrating a high ceiling for growth. While the linebacker class is deep this draft, Overshown and James could very well be the starting duo next season.
Secondary: Cobie Durant, Jalen Thompson, Malik Hooker, DaRon Bland
The secondary is in flux, with Jalen Thompson, a key signing from the Cardinals, expected to anchor the defense. Cobie Durant, having started 29 games over the past two seasons with the Rams, brings reliability to the cornerback position.
Malik Hooker, in the final year of his contract, and DaRon Bland, fresh off a four-year extension, round out the starting lineup. Hooker’s performance dipped last year, allowing a 155.8 passer rating, suggesting the Cowboys might still look to strengthen the safety position.
Dallas has shored up its defensive tackle position, but questions linger at linebacker, edge, and cornerback. Relying solely on the draft to plug these gaps might be risky, but with strategic picks and Parker’s guidance, the Cowboys could be gearing up for a defensive resurgence.