As the NFL gears up for Week 5, the draftnik community is already looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, and for Dallas Cowboys fans, the anticipation is electric. Armed with two first-round picks, the Cowboys are poised to address critical needs and bolster their roster with game-changing talent. A recent mock draft from The Athletic by Nick Baumgardner offers an exciting glimpse into how Dallas might shape its future, targeting a dynamic edge rusher to fill the void left by Micah Parsons and a towering wide receiver to ignite the offense.
With their first selection at No. 9 overall, the Cowboys are projected to draft Auburn Tigers’ standout edge rusher Keldric Faulk, a player who could step into the massive shoes left by Parsons. Described as a “freakishly athletic and physical prospect,” Faulk’s versatility is his calling card. Capable of lining up anywhere from zero- to nine-tech while maintaining above-average coverage range, he brings a rare blend of power, speed, and agility to the defensive front.
At just 20 years old, Faulk is still refining his pass-rushing arsenal, but his production speaks volumes. Since his true freshman season, he’s been a disruptive force, and this year, he’s off to another scorching start, notably racking up seven pressures against Oklahoma. For a Cowboys pass rush that has struggled to generate consistent pressure post-Parsons, Faulk represents a high-upside investment with the potential to become a cornerstone of the defense.
With their second first-round pick at No. 26 overall, Dallas shifts focus to the offensive side, targeting Washington Huskies’ star wide receiver Denzel Boston. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-4, Boston is a big-bodied weapon with deceptive agility and elite ball skills. His ability to dominate in the redzone and make contested catches draws comparisons to Puka Nacua, making him an intriguing fit for the Cowboys’ aerial attack.
Boston’s college resume is impressive: 89 receptions, 1,175 yards, and 12 touchdowns. This season, he’s been a model of consistency, hauling in at least five catches in three of Washington’s four games. His combination of size, power, and playmaking ability makes him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.
While Dallas already boasts CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens as their top outside threats, Pickens’ future with the team remains uncertain as he approaches free agency. Even if Pickens is re-signed, adding Boston’s unique skill set would give the Cowboys a towering redzone target, elevating an already potent offense to new heights.
The Cowboys’ 2026 draft strategy, as outlined in The Athletic’s mock, signals a clear intent to address critical needs while maximizing their two first-round picks. Faulk’s raw athleticism and versatility could anchor the defensive line for years, while Boston’s size and playmaking ability add another dimension to the passing game. As the season progresses, Cowboys Nation will undoubtedly keep a close eye on these two college standouts, dreaming of the impact they could make in Dallas.