2026 NFL Mock Draft: Jerry Jones targets Anthony Hill Jr., Avieon Terrell to rebuild Dallas Cowboys defense (Image via Getty)
The Dallas Cowboys are not guessing this year. They know the problem. The offense is already playoff-ready, but the defense has held them back. Recently, a fresh seven-round mock draft from analyst Ian Van Roy laid out a clear fix.
Jerry Jones targets speed, tackling, and depth. The goal is simple. Build a defense that can finally match Dak Prescott’s firepower and push Dallas into real Super Bowl contention.That plan shows urgency. Every early pick leans defense. Every name fills a gap. From cornerbacks to linebackers, this class focuses on impact players, not projects. If this haul clicks, Dallas may finally shake off years of defensive inconsistency.
2026 NFL Mock Draft : Dallas Cowboys build a fast, physical defense through smart early picks
1. Avieon Terrell : The ball-hawking corner Dallas needs
Dallas opens at No. 12 with Avieon Terrell from Clemson. He brings speed and strong coverage instincts. His double-digit pass breakups in recent seasons show his ability to disrupt timing. Dallas lacked takeaways last year. Terrell directly addresses that issue and gives the secondary a sharper edge.
2. Anthony Hill Jr. : The tone-setter in the front seven
At No. 20, Dallas adds Anthony Hill Jr. from Texas. The 6-foot-2 linebacker led the SEC in tackles for loss in 2024.
He reads plays quickly and attacks downhill. This defense needs aggression at the second level. Hill brings that presence from Day 1.
3. Davison Igbinosun: Physical corner with strong upside
Round 3 brings Davison Igbinosun from Ohio State. He plays tight at the line and stays composed in coverage. His ability to mix physicality with awareness makes him a valuable addition. Dallas continues to build a deeper, more reliable secondary.
4. Zakee Wheatley: Versatile safety who flies to the ball
In Round 4, Zakee Wheatley adds flexibility at safety. Nearly 100 tackles in 2024 highlight his motor.
He can cover, tackle, and create turnovers. Dallas gets a player who can plug multiple roles in the secondary.
Depth additions give the Dallas Cowboys balance across the roster
1. Anthony Lucas: Developmental edge with late surge potential
Anthony Lucas from USC arrives as a developmental pass rusher. He showed flashes late in college with sacks and forced fumbles. Dallas can groom him while rotating him in key situations.
2. Tyler Onyedim: Interior force coming off a breakout year
Tyler Onyedim adds strength to the defensive line. After transferring to Texas A&M, he posted 8.5 tackles for loss in his final season.
That jump shows growth and better usage. Dallas gets needed depth inside.
3. Travis Burke: Offensive line insurance for Dak Prescott
Travis Burke from Memphis gives Dallas extra protection up front. Injuries often test offensive lines deep into the season. Burke provides depth and helps maintain stability around Dak Prescott.
4. Jamarion Miller: Reliable red-zone option in the backfield
Jamarion Miller from Alabama rounds out the class. He offers value as a rotational running back. His ability in short-yardage and red-zone spots adds another layer to the offence.This mock draft stays focused. Also, it fixes clear weaknesses and adds depth where needed. If these players develop well, Jerry Jones may finally have a defence strong enough to support a serious Super Bowl run.
