Caleb Downs and Jaishawn Barham, two of the Dallas Cowboys’ top selections in the 2026 draft, are set to start on defense when the team plays Baltimore on Sunday. Malachi Lawrence, another 2026 draft pick, is expected to contribute as an important rotational player.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said Dallas planned to give its young players substantial opportunities. He said the team expected developmental mistakes but intends to rely on the other 10 defenders to help limit the effect of any error.
Schottenheimer described Downs as an elite player and said Barham has produced a major turnover for the defense on each type of snap he has taken. He also praised Lawrence’s pass-rushing ability and called the rookie highly talented.
The Cowboys’ increased use of their rookie defenders comes as several veterans were absent from Wednesday’s practice. Defensive backs Cobie Durant, Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke, along with linebacker DeMarvion Overshown, did not participate.
