The NFL offseason reaches its least active period between mid-June and mid-July as teams break from minicamp before training camp begins. Football fans can look forward to resuming action in three weeks when training camps start, leading into the preseason and regular season starting the week of September 7.
As anticipation builds, training camp previews and position battle analyses have been conducted for all 32 teams. The latest focus in our offseason series is on rookies from each team who have the potential to secure a starting role in training camp. Today, we spotlight 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
While Caleb Downs is expected to start as one of the safeties at training camp, let’s examine Dallas’ other draft picks and their chances of landing a starting role. Among the six, Malachi Lawrence stands out as a key candidate.
The Cowboys need to compensate for the absence of major pass-rushers. They’ve lost Osa Odighizuwa, who was traded to the San Francisco 49ers, along with free agent Jadeveon Clowney. Together, these players amassed a significant number of pressures and sacks last season.
Why Malachi Lawrence Could Start
While it’s unlikely Lawrence will immediately match Micah Parsons’ impact, his performance statistics with UCF last season were impressive. Pro Football Focus reports Lawrence registered 40 pressures, 30 hurries, 11 tackles for loss, seven sacks, and two forced fumbles.
He maintained double-digit tackles for loss and seven or more sacks in two out of the three seasons he played 10 or more games. Given the competition on Dallas’ roster with players like James Houston, Sam Williams, and LT Overton among others, Lawrence has a strong chance at becoming a starting edge-rusher by Week 1.