“Don’t Expect Cowboys to Gamble on Fast-Dropping Star in NFL Draft”

The Dallas Cowboys opted not to select Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, despite extensive pre-draft discussion and McCoy’s standout pro-day 40-yard dash, due to concerns over his knee and the possibility of requiring more surgery. Medical red flags centered on bone plugs in McCoy’s knee, with league insiders worried another season out could be necessary, aligning with the Cowboys’ preference for players who can contribute immediately.

In the draft, Dallas passed on McCoy in the first round and again at pick 92 in the third round, choosing linebacker Jaishawn Barham while McCoy remained on the board. The team signaled a conservative approach to “redshirt” players, with expectations from leadership that fourth-round picks could yield early impact rather than high-risk, long-term projects.

Dallas has emphasized a defensive rebuild this offseason, highlighting changes to both the roster and the coaching staff. Team owner Jerry Jones has publicly stated a focus on fortifying the defense, describing the current efforts as a deliberate overhaul aimed at contending more consistently.

Entering Day 3, the Cowboys hold three fourth-round selections after a trade with Philadelphia, plus a seventh-round pick. Their current draft-board projections show a priority on defensive prospects, with early-round picks and mid-round selections allocated to strengthening the unit while balancing injury risk and development potential.

Overall, Dallas appears committed to a cautious, defense-focused draft strategy, prioritizing immediate contributions and long-term stability over high-upside but injury-sensitive investments such as McCoy. The broader context remains a partial rebuild of the defense, paired with strategic decisions about how to allocate resources across the remaining draft picks.