Cowboys and Chiefs Discuss Potential 2026 Draft Trade

NFL.com analyst Chad Reuter has suggested a potential trade between the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas City Chiefs that would significantly alter Dallas’s position in the 2026 NFL Draft. The proposed trade focuses on swapping draft picks to address specific team needs and draft strategy.

Proposed Trade Details

The trade scenario, as outlined by Reuter, involves the following picks:

  • Cowboys Receive: 2026 first-round pick, 2026 third-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick
  • Chiefs Receive: 2026 first-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick, 2026 seventh-round pick

Rationale Behind the Trade

NFL.com’s Chad Reuter notes the Cowboys currently possess eight draft selections, including two first-round picks, but lack picks between the 20th and 92nd overall selections. This gap is considered a crucial area for finding impactful players, particularly in a draft class perceived to be strong in that range.

Addressing Defensive Needs

“The Cowboys have eight selections, including those two first-rounders, but none between Nos. 20 and 92 overall, which is the supposed heart of this draft class, especially at…” Reuter stated. He further added, “After all the picks are swapped, Dallas would have five in the top 112 overall. Use four or more of those on defense and kickstart the rebuild.” The Cowboys have increasingly shown a willingness to trade down in recent drafts.

Cowboys’ Draft Strategy and Considerations

Analysts believe the Cowboys’ primary focus should be acquiring defensive talent. A trade down could allow them to accumulate more picks to address multiple defensive positions. However, the team would need to be unsatisfied with the available players at their original draft positions to execute such a trade.

Key Positions of Need

The Cowboys’ most pressing needs are at cornerback, edge rusher, and linebacker. Experts suggest the 2026 draft is expected to be deep enough at these positions that Dallas can secure quality players with their existing first two picks. The team would need to find an immediate-impact player to bolster their roster.

Mike Moraitis, a freelance writer covering the NFL for outlets like Sports Illustrated and The Sporting News, contributed to the analysis of the potential trade.