Cowboys Secure Eight 2026 NFL Draft Picks Through Strategic Trades
The Dallas Cowboys have made significant moves to enhance their future in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Following the recent trade of player Osa Odighizuwa to the San Francisco 49ers, the Cowboys have secured a total of eight draft picks for the event.
Cowboys’ Draft Picks Overview
Currently, the Cowboys are set to make the following selections:
- 1st Round, 12th Overall
- 1st Round, 20th Overall
- 3rd Round, 92nd Overall
- 4th Round, 112th Overall
- 5th Round, 152nd Overall
- 5th Round, 177th Overall (Compensatory)
- 5th Round, 180th Overall (Compensatory)
- 7th Round, 218th Overall
The transaction involving Odighizuwa allowed Dallas to claim the 92nd overall pick, placing them in a strong position on Day 2 of the draft.
Strategic Trades Leading Up to the Draft
In previous years, the Cowboys have executed notable trades that impacted their draft strategy. In May 2025, Dallas exchanged their own third-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers in a deal for wide receiver George Pickens. Later, they sent their 2026 second-round pick to the New York Jets as part of securing defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. Additionally, in a separate trade with the Tennessee Titans, they swapped seventh-round picks, moving up eight spots to acquire the 218th selection.
Historical Context of the 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft holds special significance for the Cowboys, marking the first time since 2008 that they have two first-round selections. This will also be the eighth instance in franchise history of making two picks in the first round. The Cowboys have a history of successful outcomes from these selections; notable players drafted include:
- DeMarcus Ware (2005)
- Marcus Spears (2005)
- Ed “Too Tall” Jones
- Russell Maryland
- Alvin Harper
- Kevin Smith
Furthermore, the franchise has found success in later rounds as well, with legendary players like Roger Staubach and Dak Prescott being chosen beyond the early picks.
Looking Ahead to the Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. With a robust set of draft picks, the Dallas Cowboys aim to capitalize on this opportunity to strengthen their roster for the future.
