Dallas Cowboys: Rookie Position Battles in NFL Offseason

With teams taking a break from mid-June to mid-July, the NFL offseason is at its quietest. Football fans have three weeks before training camp starts, leading into preseason and regular season beginning the week of September 7. During this offseason, previews have been done and top position battles analyzed for all 32 NFL teams. The focus now shifts to rookies who might secure a starting position during training camp, such as those in the Dallas Cowboys.

Dallas’ 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

Caleb Downs is expected to start as one of the Cowboys’ safeties, so his spot isn’t much debated. From Dallas’ six other draft picks, Malachi Lawrence has a strong chance of claiming a starting position this offseason. After parting ways with top pass-rushers Osa Odighizuwa and Jadeveon Clowney, the Cowboys need to replace significant production.

Some stats include Odighizuwa’s team-high 52 pressures and Clowney’s 8.5 sacks, showcasing impactful performances.

Lawrence might fill these roles. Although expecting him to perform like Micah Parsons isn’t realistic, Lawrence displayed notable pass-rushing stats at UCF. Last season, he topped his team with 40 pressures, 30 hurries, 11 tackles for loss, seven sacks, and two forced fumbles, according to Pro Football Focus.

Lawrence’s ability to consistently achieve double-digit tackles for loss and seven or more sacks over several seasons enhances his potential. With other edge-rushers on Dallas’ roster, he could become a starting edge-rusher by Week 1. Other players to consider include James Houston, Sam Williams, Isaiah Land, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Jonathan Bullard, Adedayo Odeleye, Charles Snowden, Tyrus Wheat, and fellow rookie LT Overton.