5 Combine prospects Cowboys fans should be watching closely

With the NFL Scouting Combine set for February 23–March 2 in Indianapolis, Dallas Cowboys fans are already eyeing prospects who could solve some of the team’s biggest roster needs in the 2026 NFL Draft. After a season that exposed holes on both sides of the ball, especially at edge rusher, linebacker, offensive tackle, and cornerback, the Combine will be a crucial showcase for players who might be destined for AT&T Stadium.

Here’s a look at five prospects Cowboys fans should be watching closely at the 2026 NFL Combine, tied to Dallas’ key needs and draft strategy.

2026 NFL Combine: Players the Cowboys could target to fix key holes

1. Cashius Howell, Edge Rusher (Texas A&M)

A pass-rushing force with 11.5 sacks in 2025, Howell has the speed and burst that could help Dallas replace departed star Micah Parsons, and Jadeveon Clowney, if they ultimately decide not to re-sign him. Howell’s quick first step and motor makes him a coveted edge option in a Cowboys defense that struggled to generate consistent pressure last year.

2. Akheem Mesidor, Defensive End (Miami)

Mesidor is another explosive pass-rusher on the Cowboys’ radar. He blends size and burst, offering immediate capability as a 3-technique or outside rusher. According to scouting reports, Mesidor generates pressure consistently and could be a Day 1 contributor in Dallas’ front. He provides pass-rush juice and run-defense ability and could help solidify a defensive line that ranked poorly in pressure metrics in 2025.

3. Mansoor Delane, Cornerback (LSU)

Cornerback remains a top positional need after losses in the secondary and injury issues. Delane has been widely discussed in Cowboys draft circles as a potential upgrade. He is a physical, versatile corner who can play outside or in press-man schemes.

4. Tanner Koziol, Tight End (Houston)

A standout receiving tight end, Koziol combines size (6′6″) with reliable hands and yards-after-catch ability. He won’t be one of Dallas’ top needs, but adding a mismatch pass-catcher could give Dak Prescott another dynamic weapon in the intermediate game, especially if George Pickens remains the top receiving target.

5. Emmett Johnson, Running Back (Nebraska)

While the Cowboys have Javonte Williams and Malik Davis, a running back with true three-down versatility could be intriguing if Dallas looks for youth and competition in the backfield. Johnson’s vision, cut-back ability, and explosiveness could pair well with Dallas’ zone-blocking system. He would provide depth and playmaking ability in the running game, and is a young, pro-ready runner who could contribute on early downs.

The 2026 Combine will give scouts and Cowboys evaluators a deeper look at athletic testing, positional drills, and how prospects fit Dallas’ schemes, from press coverage on defense to route-tree agility on offense.

Cowboys fans should tune into Indianapolis this year. A strong Combine showing from any of these prospects, especially those tied to the team’s biggest needs, could move them up draft boards and put them on Dallas’ radar as potential members of the roster.

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