The Dallas Cowboys have made waves with their recent moves, including a steal in the 2025 NFL Draft with Boston College’s Donovan Ezeiruaku at No. 44 overall. Seen as a potential first-round talent, Ezeiruaku is poised to fill the void left by DeMarcus Lawrence’s departure in free agency. However, with Sam Williams and Dante Fowler set to hit free agency in 2026, the Cowboys may need to bolster their defensive line once again. Pro Football Network’s Mark Stolte projects Dallas addressing this need in his latest three-round mock draft, selecting Clemson’s explosive edge rusher T.J. Parker at No. 7 overall.
Parker, a standout on Clemson’s stacked defensive line, racked up an impressive 11 sacks and six forced fumbles in the 2024 season. With his size, speed, and pass-rushing prowess, Parker could thrive opposite Micah Parsons, who the Cowboys are expected to extend. Pairing Parker with Parsons and Ezeiruaku could create a formidable pass-rush trio, making life miserable for opposing quarterbacks.
While the idea of Dallas drafting at No. 7 seems unlikely—especially after finishing 12th this season despite Dak Prescott’s absence for much of the year—the fit is undeniable. Parker’s explosiveness off the edge would complement Parsons’ relentless pressure, giving the Cowboys a dynamic duo capable of disrupting any passing game.
However, the Cowboys’ defense still faces challenges against the run. To address this, Stolte’s mock draft has Dallas selecting Cincinnati’s Dontay Corleone in the second round. Corleone, a massive run-stuffer, could anchor the interior of the defensive line and help shore up Dallas’ biggest defensive weakness.
For this defensive-heavy draft strategy to work, the Cowboys would need to secure an extension for George Pickens and identify a reliable featured running back. If those pieces fall into place, this draft haul could transform Dallas’ defense into a nightmare for opponents, blending an elite pass rush with a stout run defense. With Parker’s 11-sack potential and Corleone’s run-stopping ability, the Cowboys could be building a unit ready to dominate in 2026.