4 Cowboys Sleeper Targets Who Could Be Steals in 2026 NFL Draft

The Dallas Cowboys have two picks in Round 1, but they can also find talent in the later rounds with these four sleepers serving as excellent fits.

Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jaishawn Barham reacts in the second half against the Wisconsin Badgers. | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

We have just three weeks remaining until the 2026 NFL draft kicks off in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Leading up to the event, the Dallas Cowboys have been one of the teams most often discussed.

That's because Dallas enters the draft with two picks in the top 20. The expectation is that they will use No. 12 and No. 20 to shore up their defense, but Jerry Jones has said they would be open to any possibility, including trading their picks.

Whatever happens in Round 1, the Cowboys need to ensure they hit on as many picks as possible. There are multiple holes on their roster, and the best way to fill those is by drafting players who can contribute without hurting the salary cap.

That said, here's a look at four sleeper prospects who Dallas should consider drafting.

Tyler Onyedim, DL, Texas A&M

Texas A&M Aggies DT Tyler Onyedim celebrates a sack during the CFP National Playoff against the Miami Hurricanes. | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Christian Parker desires more size on the defensive line, which is why Osa Odighizuwa was traded to the San Francisco 49ers. They recently signed Jonathan Bullard, giving them an experienced 3-4 defensive end. Dallas still needs more depth for that role, and Tyler Onyedim is an excellent prospect.

Onyedim is 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds with 34-inch arms. He's not someone who will fill up the stat sheet, but he can do the dirty work, which will be key in Parker's system.

Dametrious Crownover, OT, Texas A&M

Texas A&M offensive lineman Dametrious Crownover speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine. | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

Terence Steele isn't going anywhere yet, but he hasn't lived up to expectations at right tackle. The Cowboys could begin developing a replacement by targeting Day 3 prospect Dametrious Crownover.

The Texas A&M prospect is 6-foot-7 and 319 pounds with incredible length. He's still raw, but offensive coordinator Klayton Adams knows how to get the most out of linemen, making this an intriguing fit.

Jaishawn Barham, EDGE, Michigan

Central Michigan Chippewas quarterback Joe Labas is sacked by Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jaishawn Barham. | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Cowboys fans will have PTSD every time a Michigan defender is linked to them thanks to Taco Charlton and Mazi Smith, but that doesn't mean they should avoid someone such as Jaishawn Barham.

An off-ball linebacker, Barham had 10 tackles for loss and four sacks in 2025. He's another developmental player, but could serve in a rotation early in his career.

Bud Clark, S, TCU

TCU Horned Frogs safety Bud Clark celebrates after he intercepts an SMU Mustangs pass. | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Bud Clark was an absolute ballhawk for TCU during his collegiate career. He spent six years in the NCAA, but took off beginning in 2023, recording five interceptions that year.

Clark finished with 21 pass deflections and 15 interceptions. Dallas feels great about Jalen Thompson, but Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke will be free agents in 2027. Clark could be in line to slide in next to Thompson, allowing the Cowboys to get younger and more athletic at the position.

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