The Dallas Cowboys are heading into the 2026 NFL Draft with several options, including the chance to move up the board. In a scenario outlined by NFL experts at Heavy.com, Dallas could look to make a deal with the Arizona Cardinals to jump up to the No. 3 overall pick.
That possibility comes as the Cowboys continue evaluating how to address key roster needs, particularly on defense, while balancing their available draft capital.
Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones made it clear in his press conference ahead of the draft that trades remain firmly in play.
“You could imagine getting a call right now and making a trade,” Jones said. “Picks or players, you can imagine that.”
Cowboys Trade-Up Scenario Targets No. 3 Pick at the 2026 NFL Draft
In the scenario outlined by Heavy.com’s NFL experts, Dallas would send its No. 12 and No. 20 picks to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for the No. 3 overall selection. The deal may lean slightly in Arizona’s favor on paper, but it would give the Dallas Cowboys a chance to move up and target a top defensive prospect early in the draft.
The move would likely center on improving the pass rush, especially after offseason changes left Dallas needing more impact along the defensive front. If quarterback Fernando Mendoza is selected first overall as expected, and the New York Jets take one of the top edge rushers at No. 2, Dallas could still have access to a high-level defender at No. 3, like Arvell Reese or David Bailey.
Jerry Jones Discusses Cowboys Draft Flexibility
Jones emphasized that while trading up is a possibility, the team is not forcing a move. He noted that deals often develop organically as the draft unfolds.
“I don’t know that,” Jones said when asked if the Cowboys would initiate calls to move up. “They’re usually, candidly, better coming in than going out. The results are better for us.”
At the same time, Jones acknowledged that the Cowboys have more flexibility than in recent years, which could allow them to act if the right opportunity arises.
“We’re in a position that we can do some things, flexibility, that allow us if that opportunity were there,” Jones said. “We’ve probably had more flexibility than we’ve had in years past.”
Cowboys Also Weigh Trade-Back Options
While moving up remains an option, Dallas is also considering the benefits of trading down to acquire additional picks. Co-owner and COO Stephen Jones said the team is evaluating both approaches ahead of the draft.
“It can work both ways,” Stephen said. “You can improve your team moving back if you make the right selections, because you get more players.”
That strategy could help the Cowboys address multiple needs across the roster, particularly on defense. The team continues to evaluate positions such as edge rusher and linebacker while also monitoring offensive depth.
The Cowboys have historically been active on draft day, completing 73 trades since 1989. That track record reflects a willingness to adapt as the board evolves.
“There’s every kind of trade possible over these next few days,” Jerry Jones said. “Players on other rosters, draft picks, all of that is very much in play.”
Dallas is also exploring roster upgrades beyond the draft. Stephen Jones confirmed that the team has ongoing conversations with other organizations about potential veteran additions.
“We’re talking currently to teams about players, veteran players, that could certainly help us,” he said. “Player acquisition’s not going to be over after the draft either.”
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