What latest news on Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. could mean for the Dallas Cowboys ahead of 2026 NFL Draft
Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. was involved in a fatal car accident in 2024 that’s only now being reported on. What we know so far and what A to Z Sports is hearing from NFL sources regarding his draft position.
The latest news surrounding Miami EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. raises questions about how NFL teams, the Dallas Cowboys included, will factor in some off-the-field concerns when the 2026 NFL Draft comes around.
On Sunday, Ollie Connolly from Read Optional reported Bain Jr. “was cited for careless driving after a 2024 crash that left a passenger in a coma.” The passenger died three months later. According to an additional report from Outkick’s Trey Wallace, Bain Jr. was also cited for reckless driving in 2025. Both cases were ultimately dismissed.
A to Z Sports was able to confirm the latest information on Bain Jr. and also talked to several team sources to get a grasp of teams’ perception of the available information. Below are some key takeaways from a story published earlier by our own Easton Freeze and Ryan Roberts.
Questions about Bain Jr.’s draft positioning
Right now, it’s unclear how the information will affect Bain Jr.’s draft position. However, here are some notes from A to Z Sports’ reporting:
- One AFC West source claimed Bain Jr.’s arm length concerns “would have been used as an excuse to not draft him early if this accident had not been reported before the draft.”
- An NFC South team claims Bain’s name is “flipped over” on their board, which is close to being off of it altogether.
- Another two NFL teams shared similar stances on the Miami EDGE.
According to at least one report though, teams are “satisfied” with Bain’s explanation so far.
CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones weighed in after the news dropped from Connolly. According to Jones, teams have “been satisfied with Bain’s explanation. Most have considered the matter handled.” That very well could be true, but as of now, the A to Z Sports staff hasn’t spoken with any teams that are fully comfortable with the situation.
– Easton Freeze, ryan roberts
A to Z Sports
Cory Kinnan from Daft on Draft released a statement from the passenger’s family which read: “At this time, we’re not seeking public attention surrounding this tragedy and respectfully request that our family’s privacy be honored. We also wish Mr. Bain the best as he continues his life and career.”
As far as the Cowboys go, indications have been they’re considering drafting an edge rusher early in the draft. ESPN insider Jordan Reid recently named Bain Jr. as one of two players who are “believed” to be on their radar in a trade up scenario.
For now, there’s not much to do but wait as teams and the NFL continue to investigate the situation.