Dallas Cowboys Eye Defensive Reinforcements in 2026 Mock Draft
As the NFL regular season draws to a close, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves in a precarious position. While their playoff aspirations hang in the balance, the looming threat of a slip-up could swiftly shift the team’s focus toward the upcoming NFL Draft. Amidst this backdrop, ESPN’s Field Yates has emerged as a prominent voice, sharing his latest in-season mock draft for 2026 ahead of Week 15.
Shifts in the Draft Landscape
Yates’ initial mock draft was released back in August, but since then, both the NFL and college football scenes have evolved significantly. The Cowboys’ requirements, particularly on the defensive side, remain a critical topic of discussion. Yates’ current mock underscores this need, suggesting that the team should prioritize bolstering its defense with their two first-round picks.
Strategic Defensive Picks
In his latest projections, Yates forecasts the Cowboys addressing two pressing issues: linebacker and EDGE positions. While the secondary also requires attention, those needs may be met through later rounds or free agency, providing Dallas with multiple avenues to strengthen their roster.
Pick No. 15: Sonny Styles, Linebacker, Ohio State
Sonny Styles has emerged as a favored choice for the Cowboys, and for good reason. His championship experience at Ohio State would be a valuable addition to Dallas. Styles not only comes from a winning background but is also the son of Lorenzo Styles, a former NFL linebacker and Super Bowl champion.
“The Cowboys have needs on multiple levels of their defense, which is allowing the second-most points per game this season (29.7). They could address linebacker first with Styles, who has made the impressive transition to the position after beginning his collegiate career at safety,” Yates noted.
With remarkable physical attributes, Styles showcases exceptional length and movement skills, enabling him to navigate the second level adeptly. His coverage prowess, honed during his time as a safety, pairs well with his ability to blitz effectively—a skill he demonstrated last season with 6.0 sacks during Ohio State’s national championship run. This season alone, he has tallied 80 total tackles, five tackles for loss, one interception, three passes defensed, a forced fumble, and 0.5 sacks.
Pick No. 28 (via Packers): Damon Wilson II, EDGE, Missouri
The Cowboys’ quest for defensive talent continues with the selection of Damon Wilson II from Missouri. After transferring from Georgia, Wilson has made a significant impact in his junior season. His statistics tell a compelling story: 17 tackles, seven sacks, seven tackles for loss, one interception, and one fumble recovery. Over his collegiate career, he has amassed 10.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss.
Yates emphasizes the importance of this selection, stating, “The defensive investment would continue for the Cowboys here via Wilson, who broke out in…”
The Dallas Cowboys are clearly poised for a defensive overhaul, addressing critical gaps in their lineup. As the draft approaches, the team’s strategy will be pivotal in determining their trajectory in the 2026 season and beyond.
