A recent Pro Football Focus mock draft shifts the focus away from linebackers and toward the secondary, projecting the Cowboys to select LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane at No. 12 and Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman at No. 20. The analysis notes Dallas’ defensive changes could support bolstering the back end, particularly if a top cornerback such as Delane is available.
Delane is highlighted as the preferred first-round target if top linebackers or safeties are off the board. Cowboys representatives have met with him at the combine, and he would fit well with a defensive staff skilled at developing young cornerbacks. PFF praises Delane’s man-coverage efficiency, including a strong 2025 primary-coverage contribution.
Thieneman’s surprising rise at the combine adds intrigue for Dallas at No. 20. The former Purdue standout, who transferred to Oregon, posted elite athletic benchmarks and a standout coverage grade in 2025. His speed and playmaking traits would address Dallas’ depth concerns and add a dynamic athlete to the secondary.
Even with the potential to add two defensive backs, questions remain about how many safeties Dallas should carry, given the presence of Jalen Thompson, PJ Locke, Malik Hooker, and possibly Markquese Bell. The Cowboys’ strategy will likely balance ambitions to strengthen the back end with the ongoing need to upgrade the linebacking corps in free agency or the draft.
