As the Dallas Cowboys set their sights on the 2026 NFL Draft, one thing is crystal clear: the second level of their defense needs serious attention. Last season, the linebacker unit didn’t just struggle-it was exposed.
Undersized and outmatched, especially against physical rushing attacks, the group consistently failed to hold the line. Even with the front office making splashy moves to fortify the interior defensive line-bringing in Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark-the linebacker corps couldn’t keep pace.
Too often, they blew assignments and gave up big plays in moments that mattered most.
Now, with a new defensive coordinator in Christian Parker, the Cowboys are in the market for more than just athleticism. They need linebackers who can process the game at NFL speed-players who can read and react to complex offensive schemes and still bring the physicality to shed blocks and make stops. It’s not just about filling gaps anymore; it’s about finding tone-setters.
Enter Lander Barton.
The Utah linebacker made a strong case for himself at the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl, showcasing exactly the type of skill set Dallas is desperate to inject into its defense. Barton didn’t just flash potential-he looked like a player ready to step into a bigger role on Sundays.
Barton’s college résumé speaks volumes. A Freshman All-American and multi-time All-Pac-12 selection, he piled up over 200 tackles during his time with the Utes.
At 6'4", 240 pounds, he’s got the kind of frame that pops off the screen, but it’s his production that really turns heads. His junior season was a highlight reel of solo tackles, forced fumbles, and timely interceptions-proof that he’s not just around the ball, he’s making things happen when he gets there.
What really elevated Barton’s draft stock, though, was his performance during Shrine Bowl week. He didn’t just hold his own-he stood out.
Whether lining up in the middle or sliding over to strong-side linebacker, Barton looked comfortable and confident. He took reps in coverage against tight ends, occasionally rushed off the edge, and showed he can thrive in space-something the Cowboys sorely lacked in 2025.
His lateral quickness and ability to sift through traffic stood out during drills, and his nearly 80-inch wingspan helped him disrupt passing lanes with ease.
For Dallas, Barton represents more than just a body to plug into the rotation. He’s a potential solution to a problem that’s been simmering for too long.
Last season, the Cowboys ranked in the bottom 10 in run defense, giving up 4.7 yards per carry. Opposing backs weren’t just getting past the line-they were living in the secondary.
Tackling often looked optional. That’s where Barton could make an immediate impact.
He’s got a reputation as a “tackling merchant,” the kind of player who finds the ball and finishes the play-something this defense has been missing.
The Cowboys don’t currently hold any Day 2 picks, but they do have five on Day 3. That means they’ll need to find value outside the top 100, and Barton could be one of those hidden gems. He’s the type of player who can come in and provide immediate depth at linebacker while contributing on special teams-a critical role for any rookie trying to carve out a spot.
If Dallas is serious about fixing the soft middle of its defense, Lander Barton might just be the kind of player who can start that transformation. He brings size, instincts, and a physical edge-three things the Cowboys desperately need at the second level.