There are few teams in the NFL with richer histories than the Dallas Cowboys, but they’ve unfortunately been mired in futility for more than three decades.
A 31-year NFC Championship game drought cannot be blamed solely on one aspect, but the defense has been the main culprit for the last few seasons.
The Cowboys have suffered through back-to-back seasons of being one of the worst defenses in the league, and trading away All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons certainly didn’t help.
While the defense improved toward the end of last year with the midseason addition of defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, the unit still has a long way to go.
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams (92) warms up prior to the game against the Kansas City Chiefs.Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
(Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Dallas could improve a lot on that side of the ball if they follow the direction of Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt’s most recent mock draft.
The college football savant has them taking Ohio State Buckeyes star Caleb Downs, who is widely considered to be the best safety prospect in years.
The Cowboys haven’t had many game-wrecking defensive players outside of Parsons, so selecting Downs is a must if they want the best shot at having another bonafide superstar.
The hard-hitting safety accumulated 257 total tackles, 16 tackles for loss, six interceptions and three forced fumbles over his three college seasons.
He has the versatility to sit back in coverage and take away top receivers, or he can drop down into the box and ruin an opposing running back’s day.
Downs is a Swiss Army knife that can be plugged into multiple parts of the field and make a tremendous impact.
It’s tough to say he would completely transform Dallas’ defense by himself, but he’d be an ideal piece for the defense to build around in the future.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.