Dallas Cowboys Face Tough 2026 NFL Draft Decision on Injured Star Cornerback

The Dallas Cowboys hold two valuable first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Their focus is firmly on rebuilding a defense needing young talent. A prominent mock draft suggests a surprising and risky path for their first selection.

This scenario involves selecting Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, who missed the entire 2025 season with a knee injury. The potential move divides analysts and highlights the high-stakes gamble of the Dallas Cowboys 2026 NFL Draft strategy.

Mock Draft Projects Cowboys’ Controversial First-Round Pick

Analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic recently published a 2026 NFL mock draft. In it, he projects the Cowboys will select Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy with their first pick.

McCoy has not played a snap this season due to an ACL injury. Despite the absence of current tape, his 2024 performance was highly rated. Brugler notes the Cowboys’ historical willingness to draft players recovering from injuries.

This pick would address a future need in the secondary. Star cornerback Trevon Diggs may not be on the roster in 2026. The team hopes younger players develop, but adding elite talent remains a priority.

Why the McCoy Selection is a High-Risk Proposition

On paper, McCoy fits the Cowboys’ physical profile for cornerbacks. He possesses long arms and reported elite speed. His 2024 grade from Pro Football Focus was an outstanding 87.0, ranking him as a top-10 prospect.

The issue is not talent, but timing and risk. The Cowboys are positioning for a championship window in 2026 and 2027. Using a premier pick on a player coming off a major knee injury is a significant gamble.

Recovery from an ACL tear often spans two full years for a player to regain peak form. Cornerback is also a position that typically requires adjustment time in the NFL. The Cowboys desperately need immediate, reliable starters from these draft picks.

Dallas might be better served selecting a defender from a deep class of linebackers and pass rushers. These positions offer less developmental uncertainty this early in the draft. The team should not shy away from a cornerback, but perhaps one without such a pronounced medical red flag.

The Cowboys’ approach to the 2026 NFL Draft will define their near future. Passing on a talented but injured player like McCoy may be the prudent choice for a team in win-now mode.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who is Jermod McCoy?

Jermod McCoy is a cornerback for the University of Tennessee. He is considered a top NFL prospect due to his 2024 performance but missed the 2025 season after suffering an ACL tear.

Why do the Cowboys need defense in the 2026 draft?

Most of Dallas’s offensive core is under contract for several years. The defense, however, needs an infusion of young, cost-controlled talent to build a championship-caliber unit around their current window.

What other positions are strong in the 2026 draft?

According to evaluators, linebacker and EDGE defender are particularly deep positions at the top of the 2026 draft class. Both are also areas of need for the Dallas Cowboys.

What is the biggest risk in drafting McCoy?

The biggest risk is his recovery from a major knee injury. The physical demands of cornerback mean he may not be at full strength or could face a slow start to his professional career.