Dallas Cowboys Move Down in 2026 NFL Draft Order After Week 7 Triumph
The Dallas Cowboys have regained their footing following a commanding victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 7, propelling them into second place in the NFC East. This performance not only showcased the team’s potential but also influenced their position in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
Momentum Shift for the Cowboys
After a well-rounded display against their division rivals, the Cowboys appear poised to carry this momentum into their next matchup with the Denver Broncos at Mile High. This victory marked a significant turnaround for the team, as they demonstrated both offensive and defensive prowess, crucial for the rest of the season.
Impact on Draft Positioning
Entering Week 7, the Cowboys were projected to select 12th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Following their latest win, they have slipped slightly, moving down just one spot in the draft order. Their second first-round pick, originally belonging to the Green Bay Packers, has also fallen by the same margin.
While Dallas’ general manager, Stephen Jones, and head coach, Brian Schottenheimer, will have several months to strategize before the draft, the possibility remains that owner Jerry Jones could pursue a bold move by bundling their picks.
Current Draft Order Landscape
If the draft were to occur today, the winless New York Jets would hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick. Here’s a snapshot of the current 2026 NFL Draft order, following the conclusion of Week 7 games:
New York Jets (0-7)
Miami Dolphins (1-6)
New Orleans Saints (1-6)
Tennessee Titans (1-6)
Baltimore Ravens (1-5)
Cleveland Browns (2-5)
Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)
New York Giants (2-5)
Arizona Cardinals (2-5)
Houston Texans (2-3)
Cincinnati Bengals (3-4)
Washington Commanders (3-4)
Dallas Cowboys (3-3-1)
Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta – 3-3)
Minnesota Vikings (3-3)
Carolina Panthers (4-3)
Kansas City Chiefs (4-3)
Chicago Bears (4-2)
Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville – 4-3)
Los Angeles Chargers (4-3)
Buffalo Bills (4-2)
Seattle Seahawks (4-2)
Detroit Lions (4-2)
Los Angeles Rams (5-2)
Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2)
Denver Broncos (5-2)
San Francisco 49ers (5-2)
Philadelphia Eagles (5-2)
New England Patriots (5-2)
Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay – 4-1-1)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-1)
Indianapolis Colts (6-1)
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from April 23 to April 25. With several months remaining until the draft and the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, the Cowboys’ situation could shift dramatically.
Defensive Focus Ahead
As it stands now, the Cowboys may want to prioritize bolstering their defense. Given the depth of talent available in this year’s defensive class, it wouldn’t be surprising to see both of their first-round picks allocated to defensive prospects. This strategic focus could enhance their roster as they strive for a more formidable presence on the field.
With the excitement of the season still unfolding, all eyes will be on how the Cowboys navigate the coming weeks and their draft strategy moving forward.
