The Dallas Cowboys knew they had to make a change after finishing with just a 7-9-1 record and missing the postseason in 2025. After giving up more points than any other team last season, one area they had to fix was scoring defense. The good news is that Dallas has made several upgrades so far.
The Cowboys have added defensive lineman Otito Ogbonia, outside linebacker Rashaan Gary, safety Jalen Thompson, running back PJ Lock and cornerback Kobe Durant. Nevertheless, they also traded Osa Odighizuwa to the 49ers. Overall, the Cowboys feel like they have improved on defense overall, but that doesn't mean they have accomplished all of their top goals.
according to athleticAlong with John Makota, the Cowboys also expressed interest in signing middle linebackers Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker. Somehow, both of them ended up signing with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys' need at middle linebacker has not yet been addressed elsewhere. Machota believes this could be an area that gets resolved early in the 2026 NFL Draft, where the Cowboys have two first-round picks.
"DeMarvion Overshon, Shemar James and Justin Barron are currently at the position. There is a need for another starter and another reserve player with starter upside. The Cowboys had interest in Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker; however, both signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. The goal this time of the year is to fill every position so that a team is not forced to draft any positions in the next month. At this point, the Cowboys have their two first-round picks. One of the round's picks will have to be used but there is still time to make a move. A trade for a starting-caliber inside linebacker seems like a good bet."
The Athletic's John Machota on the Cowboys
While the Cowboys have the 12th and 20th overall picks in the first round, as Machota said, they could also turn to the trade market. With eight selections in the upcoming draft, the Cowboys have enough trade capital to execute a deal. They have already discussed a trade for a former Pro Bowl middle linebacker.
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