Dallas Cowboys Eyeing Elite Linebacker Talent in Stacked 2026 NFL Draft

The Dallas Cowboys defense has found its rhythm in recent weeks. This surge comes despite a clear and persistent weakness at linebacker. Team officials are now looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft to find a permanent solution for the middle of their defense.According to ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid, next year’s draft class is exceptionally strong at the linebacker position. This aligns perfectly with the Cowboys’ most pressing roster need as they plan for the future.

Why Linebacker is the Cowboys’ Top 2026 Draft Priority

The Cowboys’ defensive improvement is real. However, the linebacker play has not kept pace. Starter DeMarvion Overshown shows promise but is still developing.Veterans like Logan Wilson and Kenneth Murray have struggled with consistency and speed. Both players are unlikely to be on the roster next season. This creates a massive void that must be addressed.Free agency offers some options. Yet the draft is where Dallas can find a long-term cornerstone. The 2026 class provides that rare opportunity with top-tier talent.

A Deep Draft Class Offers First-Round Solutions

ESPN’s Jordan Reid recently highlighted the strength of the upcoming linebacker group. He called the class “extremely” deep with strong names at the top. This is ideal for a team picking in the mid-to-late first round.Reid specifically named Ohio State’s Sonny Styles and Georgia’s CJ Allen as top prospects. Both players are projected as first-round selections. Their skill sets match what the Cowboys desperately lack.Drafting a linebacker in the first round is sometimes questioned. For Dallas, the value of fixing a glaring weakness outweighs that concern. Adding a dynamic playmaker could transform the entire defense.The Cowboys’ defense is close to being a true strength. A game-changing linebacker might be the final piece. The 2026 draft appears to have several players who can fill that role immediately.

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The Dallas Cowboys are poised to target a premier linebacker in the 2026 NFL Draft. This strategic move addresses their most vulnerable unit directly. It could be the key to building a championship-caliber defense.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Why do the Cowboys need a linebacker so badly?

Their current group has struggled with inconsistency and speed. Key veterans are on expiring contracts, leaving a huge projected hole in the middle of the defense for the 2026 season.

Q2: Who are the top linebacker prospects for 2026?

According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, Ohio State’s Sonny Styles and Georgia’s CJ Allen are the top-ranked off-ball linebackers. Both are potential first-round picks in next year’s draft.

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

It is very likely. Given the strength of the 2026 linebacker class and the severity of the team’s need, using one of their two first-round selections on the position is a strong possibility.

Q4: Can’t they just fix this in free agency?

They might sign a veteran for depth, but the draft is where teams find affordable, long-term stars. The Cowboys are expected to build their future linebacker corps primarily through the draft.

Q5: What has improved about the Cowboys’ defense recently?

The unit has generated more consistent pressure and created timely stops. However, covering the middle of the field and stopping the run remain issues tied directly to linebacker play.