How Dallas is using the combine, meetings and draft capital to reshape the roster, especially on defense
Draft & Combine Strategy For 2026
Dallas Cowboys’ Strategic Use of Combine, Meetings, and Draft Capital to Reinvent Their Defense in 2026
As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the 2026 NFL Draft, their strategic approach is centered on leveraging the NFL Scouting Combine, targeted meetings with prospects, and significant draft capital to overhaul their defense—especially the interior line and pass rush. This comprehensive effort aims to complement the team’s ongoing offensive stability and maximize Dak Prescott’s elite play, all while addressing systemic weaknesses that have hampered their championship pursuits.
Combine Schedule, Meeting Strategy, and Target Positions
The NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis has become a pivotal event for Dallas’s front office. The Cowboys have been actively engaging with top defensive prospects, particularly interior defensive linemen and pass rushers, signaling a clear intent to bolster their front seven. Recent meetings with elite interior defensive tackle prospects at the Combine indicate a focused effort to improve interior disruption and run defense—areas that have been problematic, as evidenced by allowing 511 points in 2025.
According to the "2026 Cowboys NFL Combine Meeting Tracker," Dallas has scheduled formal discussions with several top prospects including those who can contribute immediately and develop into long-term solutions. These meetings are critical for evaluating physical measurements, athletic testing, and football IQ—elements that will inform their draft and trade decisions.
Targeted Positions Include:
- Interior Defensive Tackles (for interior pressure and disruptiveness)
- Edge Rushers (to complement Micah Parsons and enhance pass rush potency)
- Versatile defenders like Sonny Styles (who can play safety or hybrid roles)
The emphasis on interior line rotation, as highlighted in recent combine insights, underscores Dallas’s desire for disruptive players capable of creating mismatches and elevating their front seven’s effectiveness.
Mock Drafts, Trade Scenarios, and Specific Prospects
Dallas’s draft strategy involves a dual approach: supporting Prescott’s current prime with offensive line upgrades and skill-position depth, while simultaneously building a formidable defense through the draft and potential trades. The team has been mentioned in mock drafts as a candidate to trade into the top 5 of the 2026 draft, with analysts proposing blockbuster moves like a trade with the Cleveland Browns to secure an elite pass rusher or franchise quarterback.
Recent mock drafts, such as the "Two-round 2026 NFL Mock Draft," suggest Dallas might target a top-tier EDGE or interior lineman early, reinforcing their front line. Notably, NFL Draft expert Dane Brugler has highlighted Sonny Styles as a ‘dream’ pick for Dallas due to his versatility as a hybrid safety and linebacker, which could provide both defensive stability and flexibility.
Further, the article "Dallas Cowboys Target 35.5-Sack DE Akheem Mesidor in NFL Draft to Boost Defense" indicates Dallas’s interest in high-impact pass rushers capable of elevating their sack totals and interior pressure. The team’s focus on interior disruption is reinforced by their meetings with elite defensive tackle prospects and their pursuit of players who can immediately impact the game.
Trade and Draft Capital Maneuvers
Dallas’s roster moves, such as waiving linebacker Logan Wilson to free up cap space and signing explosive players like Javonte Williams, are part of a broader strategy to remain flexible for draft and trade opportunities. The team is considering a franchise tag for WR George Pickens, which, while costly, underscores their commitment to maintaining offensive firepower.
The team’s willingness to explore bold trades—including the aforementioned Browns deal—demonstrates their intent to secure top-tier talent at critical positions. These moves are designed to support Dak Prescott with better pass protection, explosive playmakers, and a revamped defense capable of competing at a championship level.
Supplementing the Defense with Draft and Development
In addition to targeting high-impact players through the draft, Dallas is emphasizing internal development of their existing roster, especially on the offensive line, where coach Klayton Adams has highlighted the scarcity of veteran tackles and the need for high-upside draft selections. The goal is to maximize protection for Prescott and ensure a balanced offensive approach that complements their defensive upgrades.
Furthermore, prospects like Sonny Styles and other versatile defenders are being evaluated as potential long-term solutions. The team’s aggressive draft and trade plans aim to bring immediate impact players while grooming future stars, ensuring sustained competitiveness.
Organizational Insights and Future Outlook
Under new Defensive Coordinator Christian Parker, Dallas is shifting to a 3-4 base defense, aiming to maximize Micah Parsons’s explosiveness and generate interior pressure via strategic interior line rotations. Recent insights from combine meetings and scheme adjustments reveal a clear focus on disruption, coverage, and versatility.
External evaluations, such as the NFLPA report card, highlight the importance of organizational stability and culture, which Dallas appears to prioritize alongside tactical upgrades. Their comprehensive approach—combining draft capital, targeted meetings, and strategic trades—reflects a long-term vision to build a championship-winning team.
Conclusion
Dallas’s offseason strategy is a deliberate and multifaceted effort to reshape their defense while maintaining offensive excellence. By leveraging the NFL Combine, engaging with top prospects, and exploring bold trade scenarios, they aim to maximize their draft capital and significantly upgrade their defensive front. These moves are designed not only for immediate impact but also to lay the foundation for sustained success, ensuring Dak Prescott has the support needed to lead the Cowboys deep into the playoffs and contend for a Super Bowl.
The coming months will be crucial—Dallas’s ability to execute these plans effectively could determine whether they ascend as true contenders or remain on the cusp of greatness. The balance of strategic draft choices, smart trades, and internal development will define their path forward in 2026 and beyond.