The Dallas Cowboys still have several defensive needs to address this offseason. After making some free agency moves, the team is starting to look toward the 2026 NFL draft.
With two first-rounders in this year’s draft, could the Cowboys bolster their secondary with an early pick? According to ESPN’s Matt Bowen, a Tennessee cornerback would be Dallas’ ideal fit at No. 20 overall.
“Cornerbacks with [Colton] Hood’s skill set in coverage tend to go higher than projected. And I like the fit under new coordinator [Christian] Parker, who will bring elements of Vic Fangio’s defense from Philadelphia,” Bowen wrote. “Here, Hood can match up one-on-one outside, playing opposite free agent addition Cobie Durant with DaRon Bland in the slot.”
Bowen also pointed out that Hood (6-0, 193 pounds) has had success as a run defender throughout his collegiate career. Hood spent the 2025 season at Tennessee after making stops at Auburn and Colorado. He posted 77 tackles, 14 pass deflections, three interceptions, 5.5 tackles for loss and one pick-six in three seasons at the college level.
Cowboys
Hood isn’t the only Tennessee cornerback being projected as a first-round pick. In his latest mock draft, ESPN’s Mel Kiper had Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy going to the Cowboys with the 12th overall pick.
The Cowboys could use their early draft picks to strengthen a few positions, including inside linebacker or pass rusher. In Hood, the Cowboys could get their version of Philadelphia’s Quinyon Mitchell, according to Bowen.
Find more Cowboys coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.