The Dallas Cowboys made arguably the best pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after selecting safety Caleb Downs No. 11 overall. However, while all of the buzz is focused on the former Ohio State Buckeye, the front office seemingly made a second splash pick on Thursday night after selecting Malachi Lawrence with the No. 23 pick.
Cowboys’ Vice President of Player Personnel Will McClay is all in on Lawrence, and believes the 22-year-old defensive end can be a huge asset on the club’s defensive line, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. After the first round, McClay explained what he likes about Lawrence and how he sees the former UCF Knight fitting in with the defense.
“He’s a pressure player, so you would like him in any scheme,” said McClay about Lawrence. “I think he adds value to the scheme because of the edge rush and some of the things that he can do; the multiplicity that he could provide for the defense. But No. 1 is getting after the passer with speed and athleticism, and we think he can do that.”
Although Caleb Downs was seemingly a bonafied superstar during his time in college football, Malachi Lawrence proved to be a consistent force during his time at UCF. He stepped in as a starter for the program in 2023 after sitting out most of the previous season, and never looked back. Lawrence ended his collegiate career with 72 combined tackles (47 solo), 20 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 39 games played.
Help on the defensive side of the ball was a massive need for the Cowboys entering the draft, and the front office acquired that on Day 1. Dallas has six picks remaining in the draft, but is not scheduled to be on the clock again until pick No. 92 in the third round.
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