The Dallas Cowboys often get more criticism than your average NFL team during the offseason, largely because they drag out contract negotiations as long as possible. Case in point: Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
But this offseason, the Cowboys have plenty of reason to get praise instead of harsh words.
Jerry Jones and the Cowboys made some key moves this offseason, specifically during the draft, that should pay off once September rolls around.
Cowboys expertly strengthened their defense by adding Caleb Downs and Malachi Lawrence
Dallas needed to strengthen its defense going into the 2026 NFL Draft, and boy, did it ever. They snagged safety Caleb Downs at No. 11, and that move alone enhances their defense and takes it to the next level. Even though he’s a rookie, he’s already shown leadership skills in college, and he’ll likely be a leader on the Cowboys defense for years to come.
The Cowboys also had a strong need at edge-rusher going into the draft. That’s why they were so interested in landing veteran EDGE Maxx Crosby. Well, Jones and company also took care of that need by bringing on UCF edge-rusher Malachi Lawrence in the first round at No. 23. During Lawrence’s 2025-26 season at UCF, he clocked seven sacks and 14 tackles for loss. Those are solid numbers.
The Cowboys also shaped up their roster this offseason by trading for Rashan Gary and inking Jalen Thompson.
Of course, the Cowboys are still trying to fill the hole left by trading Micah Parsons last year, and this doesn’t totally make up for losing Parsons. But it’s more than a healthy start, and for that, Dallas should get kudos.