Fast forward to 2026, the Dallas Cowboys found themselves in a similar situation, possessing two top-25 picks and choosing defensive players with both selections. Caleb Downs, a safety from Ohio State, was selected No. 11 overall, followed by Malachi Lawrence, an edge rusher from UCF, at No. 23. While Downs garnered the majority of early attention, projections around Lawrence highlighted a different narrative: a pedigree-rich but under-the-first-round-shape pick who could still impact the defense in meaningful ways.
According to NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks, Lawrence is viewed as a “long shot” to win NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, even after being drafted in the first round. Brooks described the Cowboys’ defensive overhaul as a situation where a rookie could benefit from playing alongside established, disruptive players at the line of scrimmage. In his assessment, Lawrence would face frequent one-on-one opportunities on the edge given the attention commanded by veterans at the point of attack, including players at the forefront of the line like Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, and Kenny Clark. The expectation is that Lawrence’s presence would lead to regular sack opportunities, tackles for loss, and quarterback hits, driven by hustle plays and a dynamic supporting cast around him. The Cowboys’ media profile and a schedule that features several prime-time games could further amplify his exposure and development.
Lawrence’s measurements and college production bolster the case for a high ceiling. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing about 253 pounds, he posted 19.5 sacks and 27.5 tackles for loss over his final three college seasons and ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine. Despite those numbers, some mock drafts did not slot him as a first-round pick, highlighting how the evaluation landscape can differ between analysts and scouts. In a broader context, Lawrence’s profile has drawn comparisons to established edge players who have translated college success into NFL impact, illustrating why some evaluators believed his ceiling remained intriguing even if the draft bracket didn’t perfectly align.
One respected draft analyst, Lance Zierlein, suggested Lawrence could have fallen to the second round, drawing parallels to players who have carved out roles as high-impact edge rushers in the league. Zierlein’s scouting perspective underscored that Lawrence possesses the prototypical size and length for an edge rusher, with a quick burst and an effective moveset that could disrupt offenses from multiple angles. The evaluation also noted the need for continual refinement in run defense and consistency—areas where a player with a high motor and a growing bag of tricks could develop into a reliable starter in the NFL.
The Cowboys are investing meaningfully in Lawrence, including a four-year contract valued at around $20.2 million, positioning him as a core piece of the pass-rush equation alongside other playmakers. The expectation is that his style—speed off the edge, a knack for creating disruption in the backfield, and the ability to generate pressure from multiple techniques—will translate into tangible production, even as he adjusts to the higher level of competition and the complexities of NFL defenses.
The narrative around first-round picks at edge rusher often centers on immediate impact and splash plays. Lawrence’s college resume, which includes a strong production profile on a 3-year stretch, supports optimism that he can contribute early. Yet the longer-term projection hinges on translating that potential into consistent, disciplined play at the pro level—especially against advanced offensive tackles and in varied defensive schemes. The Cowboys’ defensive alignment, featuring a mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy, is designed to maximize Lawrence’s opportunities by exerting pressure from multiple fronts and pairing him with complementary players who can draw attention away from the edge.
Beyond the sport-specific analysis, the decision to invest two high picks on defense reflects a broader strategic stance. A defense anchored by a high-caliber defensive tackle, a stalwart inside linebacker, and a versatile edge rusher can anchor a team’s identity and influence the pace of games. For Dallas, the aim is to build a front seven capable of contesting both the run and the pass, forcing offenses into uncomfortable matchups and creating a sustainable defensive foundation.
As Lawrence embarks on his rookie season, the expectation is that he will be in the mix for significant snaps, particularly in sub-packages designed to maximize pass-rush opportunities. The learning curve will involve adjusting to NFL-level blocking schemes, recognizing complex pass-protection signals, and refining technique to convert raw athleticism into consistent pressure. If he develops the ability to finish plays, set a durable edge, and contribute in run defense, Lawrence could become a staple piece of the Cowboys’ defense for years to come.
In conclusion, the 1995 Buccaneers remain the benchmark for two first-round defensive selections resulting in Hall of Fame careers, illustrating how a team’s defensive renaissance can begin with a bold draft strategy. The 2026 Cowboys entered a comparable crossroads, betting on two defensive-minded rookies to anchor a revamped unit. With Downs expected to bring rangy coverage and playmaking ability at safety and Lawrence bringing a disruptive edge presence, Dallas is pursuing a vision of a formidable defense that can anchor the team’s contention window in the seasons ahead. The road from potential to proven impact will depend on Lawrence’s development, the defensive scheme, and the surrounding talent that can consistently complement his skill set.
