Cowboys 1st Round Pick Predicted to 'Swipe' NFL Defensive ROY Honors

Dallas Cowboys’ 2026 draft theme of “swiping” NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year centers on how their two defensive first-round picks could shape award odds. After finishing with two selections, Dallas used No. 11 on Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and No. 23 on UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence. NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks described Lawrence as a “long shot” to win Defensive Rookie of the Year, arguing the Cowboys’ rebuilt defensive front will draw coverage toward Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, and Kenny Clark at the line. Brooks expects Lawrence to benefit from one-on-one matchups, creating sack opportunities and disruptive production. The article notes Lawrence is 6-foot-5 and 253 pounds, posting 19.5 sacks and 27.5 TFL over three seasons, and running a 4.52-second 40-yard dash at the combine. Despite falling short of many mocks, the team’s brand and six prime-time games may boost his visibility.