Dallas Cowboys Face High-Stakes 2026 Draft Dilemma Over Injured Star

The Dallas Cowboys hold two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Their focus is firmly on revamping a defense needing young talent. Most of the offensive core is secured for the coming years.

This defensive-heavy draft class presents a critical opportunity. Key decisions made here will shape the team’s championship window. A recent mock draft has sparked debate over one particularly risky prospect.

Mock Draft Links Cowboys to Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy

Analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic recently published a projection. In it, he has the Cowboys making a surprising first-round selection. He predicts they will choose Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy.

McCoy is a talented player but carries a significant red flag. He missed the entire 2025 college season with a knee injury. According to Brugler, McCoy’s 2024 game film was outstanding, showing top-ten potential.

The logic for Dallas is understandable. Star cornerback Trevon Diggs’s long-term future with the team is uncertain. The Cowboys hope younger players develop, but adding elite talent is a priority.

Why the Cowboys Must Consider Safer Alternatives

The physical traits are undeniable. McCoy has the length and speed the Cowboys’ front office covets. Pro Football Focus rated him highly after his last healthy season.

However, the risk may be too great for a team in its competitive window. Recovery from major knee injuries is complex. Players often need two full years to regain their prior athletic form.

Cornerback is also a difficult position for rookies to master. Drafting a player who hasn’t played in a year compounds that challenge. The Cowboys need immediate, reliable contributors from these premium picks.

This 2026 NFL Draft strategy is pivotal for Dallas. The team must balance high upside with proven reliability. Choosing a safer prospect over the injured star might be the smarter path to a championship.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Jermod McCoy?

Jermod McCoy is a cornerback for the University of Tennessee. He is considered a top NFL prospect but missed the 2025 season after suffering a knee injury.

Why do the Cowboys need defense in the 2026 draft?

Most of the Cowboys’ offensive starters are under contract. The defense, however, needs an infusion of young, cost-controlled talent to build a championship roster.

What did the mock draft predict?

Dane Brugler’s mock draft for The Athletic predicted the Cowboys would use one of their two first-round picks on Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, despite his injury.

Why is picking McCoy considered risky?

Selecting a player coming off a major knee injury is always a gamble. The Cowboys are in a win-now window and may need a more certain contributor from their first pick.

What other positions could Dallas target?

Linebacker and edge rusher are two of the strongest positions in the 2026 draft class. Both are also areas of need for the Cowboys’ defense.