Caleb Downs, Ohio State | DB<\/strong><\/p>\nWith a second first-round pick waiting in the wings, the Cowboys opt to take the best player available in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft. In defensive coordinator Christian Parker\u2019s scheme, Caleb Downs can be a do-it-all player, with the versatility to play split-field or roam as a nickel in zone.<\/p>\n
While Downs never did testing this cycle, it doesn\u2019t take much exposure to the tape to know he\u2019s the real deal. Downs\u2019 coverage, mobility, and elite football IQ are the glues that fuse his game together. He dissuades targets in coverage and is rock-solid in support.<\/p>\n
20) Dallas Cowboys<\/strong><\/p>\nJacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech | LB<\/strong><\/p>\nThis may come as a surprise, but perhaps it shouldn\u2019t. Yes, Jacob Rodriguez is undersized at 6-foot-1, 230 pounds, with sub-31-inch arms. But he won four defensive awards with elite production in 2025. He tested as one of the best athletes in the class, and he was one of the defensive stars of the Senior Bowl.<\/p>\n
Aside from size and play strength, there aren\u2019t too many holes to poke in Rodriguez\u2019s game, and the Cowboys desperately need competent LB play. Rodriguez has the acumen to man the \u201cgreen dot\u201d role, but also has the range and fluidity to make plays in all phases.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n
Caleb Downs being available at No. 12 would be a dream come true for the Cowboys. He\u2019s a perfect fit as a nickel safety in Christian Parker\u2019s defensive scheme and he would immediately upgrade the entire unit as a plug-and-play starter.<\/p>\n
Jacob Rodriguez\u2019selection No. 20 is probably a little bit of a reach, but considering the Cowboys \u201cneed\u201d at MLB it could be a necessary one. His mental processing as both a run and pass defender as well as his ability to create turnovers could make him a true difference maker as Dallas\u2019 new starting MLB.<\/p>\n