As NFL teams pause from mid-June to mid-July between minicamp and training camp, the offseason enters its quietest phase. Yet, for football enthusiasts, there’s anticipation as training camp will commence soon, preluding the preseason and regular season, which begin in early September.
In preparation, we have reviewed training camp expectations and analyzed key position battles across all 32 teams. Continuing our offseason series, we focus on one rookie per team with a strong chance of securing a starting position during training camp. Today, we examine the Dallas Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboys’ 2026 Draft Class
- Caleb Downs, S, Round 1
- Malachi Lawrence, DE, Round 1
- Jaishawn Barham, DE, Round 3
- Drew Shelton, OT, Round 4
- Devin Moore, CB, Round 4
- LT Overton, DE, Round 4
- Anthony Smith, WR, Round 7
It’s expected that Caleb Downs will start as a safety, so the focus shifts to the Cowboys’ other draft selections. Among them, Malachi Lawrence stands out as a prime candidate to secure a starting role this offseason.
Opportunity for Malachi Lawrence
The Cowboys need to compensate for the loss of key pass-rushers. Osa Odighizuwa, who had 52 pressures, 29 hurries, and 3.5 sacks, was traded to the San Francisco 49ers. Jadeveon Clowney, recording 40 pressures, 29 hurries, and 8.5 sacks, is now a free agent. Malachi Lawrence appears capable of filling this gap.
Although Lawrence is not expected to replicate Micah Parsons’ impact, his performance at UCF shows promise. Last season, Lawrence led his team with 40 pressures, 30 hurries, 11 tackles for loss, and seven sacks, alongside two forced fumbles, according to Pro Football Focus.
Over his college career, he achieved double-digit tackle counts for loss and at least seven sacks in two seasons with 10 or more games played. With the Cowboys’ current roster of defensive ends—including players like James Houston, Sam Williams, and others—Lawrence has a strong opportunity to start as one of the Cowboys’ edge-rushers in Week 1.
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