The Dallas Cowboys are once again taking a familiar approach during free agency, opting for a quieter offseason and focusing their efforts on the upcoming NFL draft. With two first-round picks at No. 12 and No. 20, this draft is crucial for Dallas, and recent developments could play in their favor.
The Denver Broncos made headlines by acquiring Jaylen Waddle and a 2026 fourth-round pick from the Miami Dolphins, in exchange for their first, third, and fourth-round picks in this draft. This move has left Miami with a significant gap in their receiving corps, having already parted ways with both Waddle and Tyreek Hill.
Owning the No. 11 pick, right before Dallas, the Dolphins are likely in the market for a receiver, potentially pushing a coveted defensive player down the draft board for the Cowboys. Miami's current top receivers are Tutu Atwell, Jalen Tolbert, and Malik Washington, which isn't exactly an intimidating lineup. They might be eyeing talents like Ohio State's Carnell Tate or USC's Makai Lemon to bolster their offense.
This scenario could benefit the Cowboys, who are prioritizing defensive upgrades this offseason. With limited activity in free agency, Dallas is banking on the draft to strengthen their defense. If Miami focuses on acquiring a receiver, Dallas could have their choice of top defensive prospects.
Potential targets for the Cowboys include LSU's Mansoor Delane, Tennessee's Jermod McCoy, safety Dillon Thieneman from Oregon, and defensive linemen like Keldric Faulk of Auburn and Akheem Mesidor of Miami. While the draft remains unpredictable, the likelihood of a valuable defensive player falling to Dallas has increased, thanks to the recent trade activity.