Cowboys Draft Position Shifts After Surprise Week 17 Win Over Commanders

The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Washington Commanders 26-21 on Christmas Day. The victory improved their record to 7-8-1 for the season. The game was played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

This result holds major implications for the team’s future. According to NFL Network, the win directly impacted their spot in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft order. The Cowboys are now eliminated from playoff contention.

Updated Draft Order Sees Cowboys Slide to 15th Overall

The Christmas win caused an immediate shift. Dallas moved down from the 13th to the 15th overall selection in the first round. This change is tracked by analysts like those at ESPN and the website Tankathon.

That two-spot drop could be significant. It might alter which top prospect is available when the Cowboys are on the clock. The team has clear needs on the defensive side of the ball.

Missing a higher pick has consequences. It could cost them a shot at a premier edge rusher or linebacker. Specific prospects like Texas Tech’s David Bailey or Ohio State’s Sonny Styles may now be out of reach.

Long-Term Strategy Versus Short-Term Pride

The win sparked debate about team philosophy. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer has publicly rejected any notion of “tanking” for better draft position. Players, including quarterback Dak Prescott, have expressed a strong desire to compete and win every game.

This creates a complex front-office dilemma. Football executives often value higher draft capital for rebuilding teams. However, coaches and players are wired to win whenever possible, which complicates long-term planning.

For fans, the late-season victory feels hollow. While no one wants to see their team lose, winning meaningless games can delay a necessary roster overhaul. The front office must now work from a slightly worse position this spring.

The Cowboys’ revised draft position adds another layer to a disappointing season. Their commitment to winning now has tangible consequences for the future. The front office must navigate this new reality as they plan their 2026 strategy.

Info at your fingertips

What is the Cowboys’ current draft pick?

After beating Washington, the Dallas Cowboys now hold the 15th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They previously held the 13th selection before the Week 17 game.

Why did the Cowboys’ draft position get worse?

In the NFL, draft order is based on reverse order of the final regular-season standings. By winning their game, the Cowboys improved their record, which moved them down the selection order compared to teams with worse records.

Could their pick change again?

Yes. The Cowboys can still move back up slightly. If teams directly ahead of them like the Baltimore Ravens or Tampa Bay Buccaneers win their final games, Dallas could climb back to the 13th or 14th spot.

What players might they miss at pick 15?

Analysts suggest top defensive talents could be gone. This includes potential top-10 edge rushers like David Bailey or a prototype linebacker like Sonny Styles, who fits a major team need.

Are the players trying to tank?

No. Public comments from Coach Schottenheimer and QB Dak Prescott confirm the team’s commitment to winning every game. Players and coaches are professionally motivated to perform, regardless of draft implications.

Trusted Sources: NFL Network, ESPN, Tankathon, Associated Press