Cowboys Eye Top-10 Trade in 2026 NFL Draft

The Dallas Cowboys are exploring trade scenarios to move into the top 10 of the 2026 NFL Draft, with the stated aim of landing a defensive player. The team currently holds two first-round picks, at Nos. 11 and 20, giving it flexibility to package assets in a bid to climb the board.

The push to strengthen the defense comes after the Cowboys traded Micah Parsons. Reports say Dallas has been in contact with teams positioned above it in the draft order as it evaluates what it would take to secure a higher selection.

One potential counterpart is the New York Giants, who hold the No. 5 overall pick and have drawn interest from teams looking to move up. Giants General Manager Joe Schoen confirmed that the club has received calls about trading down, while also indicating that no immediate deal is expected before the draft.

As things stand, the Giants are projected to use the No. 5 pick on offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. That projection sits alongside the trade interest, underscoring that New York is weighing options while maintaining a plan for how it could use its current slot.

In Pittsburgh, the Steelers’ approach to the 2026 draft is being shaped by uncertainty at quarterback. Aaron Rodgers, who signed a one-year deal last summer, has not committed to returning for the 2026 season, leaving the team without clarity on whether it will have its veteran starter beyond the current agreement.

That unresolved status has fueled speculation that Pittsburgh could consider selecting a rookie quarterback early in the draft. Ty Simpson has been mentioned as a possible target, reflecting how the Steelers’ draft priorities may shift depending on Rodgers’ decision.

Across these teams, the common thread is how draft positioning and roster needs are interacting ahead of the 2026 selection process. Dallas is assessing whether it can convert two first-round picks into a higher slot to address defense, while New York is balancing trade inquiries against its projected choice at No. 5.

The main uncertainty is timing and commitment: Schoen said a trade is not expected immediately, and Rodgers has not said whether he will return for 2026. Until those questions are resolved, the Cowboys’ trade calculus, the Giants’ willingness to move down, and the Steelers’ quarterback planning remain fluid heading into draft day.