Dallas Cowboys Eye 2026 NFL Draft to Finally Fix Glaring Linebacker Problem

The Dallas Cowboys are riding a defensive hot streak. Their recent performances have been their best since 2023. This surge has fueled their playoff push. A clear weakness remains, however, at the linebacker position.

This issue cannot be adequately addressed until the offseason. According to analysis, the 2026 NFL Draft is perfectly aligned to solve this problem. The team’s front office is expected to target this position aggressively.

Current Roster Highlights Pressing Need for New Talent

The Cowboys defense has improved markedly. The linebacker group, however, has not kept pace. DeMarvion Overshown shows promise but is still developing. Veterans like Logan Wilson and Kenneth Murray have struggled with consistency and speed.

Murray is on the final year of his contract. Wilson is a likely candidate for release. This means the unit will see a major overhaul in 2026. The draft is where Dallas will likely find its cornerstone player.

According to ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid, the 2026 linebacker class is exceptionally strong. He calls it deep with top-tier talent. This assessment should greatly interest the Cowboys’ decision-makers.

Top Draft Prospects Could Be Immediate Game-Changers

Reid highlighted specific players who could be first-round targets. He named Ohio State’s Sonny Styles as his top-ranked linebacker. Georgia’s CJ Allen is another highly-rated prospect. Both are projected as mid-to-late first-round selections.

The Cowboys own two first-round picks in the 2026 draft. Using one on a linebacker now seems a strong possibility. The positional value might not be ideal, but the team’s need is acute.

Adding a dynamic, every-down linebacker could transform the defense. It would solidify the middle of the field against both run and pass. This single move might elevate the unit from good to truly elite.

The Dallas Cowboys are building a formidable defense. Addressing the linebacker hole in the 2026 NFL Draft is the logical next step. Securing a blue-chip prospect could be the final piece of their championship puzzle.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Why are the Cowboys focused on linebackers for the 2026 draft?

Their current linebacker corps is aging and underperforming. Multiple starters are on expiring contracts, creating an urgent need for new, young talent at the position.

Q2: Who are the top linebacker prospects for 2026?

ESPN’s Jordan Reid points to Ohio State’s Sonny Styles and Georgia’s CJ Allen. Both are considered potential first-round picks who could start immediately.

Q3: Will the Cowboys use a first-round pick on a linebacker?

It is considered very likely. With two first-round selections and a major need, drafting a linebacker in the first round is a strong possibility for Dallas.

Q4: How has the Cowboys defense performed recently?

The unit has played its best football since the 2023 season. It has been key to the team’s winning streak, despite clear inconsistencies at the linebacker spot.

Q5: What happens to the current linebackers?

Kenneth Murray’s contract ends after this season. Logan Wilson is a likely cap casualty. This will force a significant rebuild of the position group.