Top 3 draft needs for Dallas Cowboys in 2026 after trade deadline

The trade deadline has come and gone, with the Dallas Cowboys being very aggressive on that front.

Jerry Jones followed through on his desire to go all-in, but that could have a devastating impact on this team’s future. While they may have addressed some needs in a few key defensive areas, there is concern that they gave up too much to get what they wanted.

To acquire defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, the Cowboys gave up a second-round selection in next year’s draft and a first-rounder in 2027, plus Mazi Smith. For Logan Wilson, they had to get rid of a seventh-round selection in 2026, while Kaair Elam cost them another seventh-rounder next year.

Jones got a lot of flak for going after Williams, with one analyst suggesting the Jets fleeced the Cowboys with that move.

The Cowboys’ moves at the trade deadline were seen as desperate. With that in mind, here are the top three draft needs the team could use when they are on the clock on April 23rd in Pittsburgh.

3. Secondary Receiver

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch - Source: Imagn

CeeDee Lamb is unquestionably the go-to receiver on the Cowboys’ offense, and he’s a marquee one at that. He’s among the best at his position. George Pickens has done a fine job being a secondary guy for Dak Prescott in the passing game.

At the same time, it would be a huge benefit to the offense going forward to have somebody who possesses the hands, speed, and game-breaking ability that Lamb has. There are some big-play guys that this team could look towards come draft day who seem more than capable of stepping in year one and making that kind of an impact.

Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon and Chris Brazzell II are all highly touted college players who fit what Dallas needs.

Any of them would be welcome additions to an offense that is already pretty potent, but could really flourish with another deep threat.

2. Linebacker

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch - Source: Imagn

Logan Wilson is a tackling machine, but at 29, the Cowboys need someone with more than just one strong aspect to their game.

Dallas needs someone capable of filling that gap and stopping the run. A key run stopper and someone who can transition and be key at defending short to medium passes is something this team should covet. Someone physical who can take on blocks and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty would be ideal.

That seems like a lot to ask, but some players in the upcoming draft fit that description. An ideal fit for the Cowboys’ linebacking corps is Sonny Styles. The Ohio State product boasts terrific athletic ability with physical presence and is a strong tackler who excels in pass coverage.

CJ Allen and Deontae Lawson are two others who are worth consideration. Neither is quite as elite in all facets of the position as Styles, but they both have plenty of potential and are strong in many departments.

1.Edge Defender

NCAA Football: Miami at Southern Methodist - Source: Imagn

This is a team that needs to disrupt quarterbacks in the worst way. That’s something we’ve not seen enough of throughout this season. Quinnen Williams should help, but neither he nor Kenny Clark will likely be an elite defensive player in a few years.

Among the top ones at the position right now heading into the draft are Rueben Bain Jr., Peter Woods and Keldric Faulk. All three possess tremendous versatility and athleticism, with a keen ability to shake off blocks and disrupt opposing quarterbacks.

They all appear primed to get plenty of attention from NFL teams. At the same time, they could all make early impacts, which for a team like the Cowboys may be precisely what they need.