We’re just over 48 hours away from the 2026 NFL Draft. So here’s one last shot at making predictions. This isn’t a mock draft, though I did put out my final seven-round Dallas Cowboys mock including UDFA signings.

Instead, it’s three predictions for the entire draft. Let’s start.

1. Trade up expectations come to fruition

To quote Michael Scott from The Office: No question about it, I’m ready to get hurt again.

I’m buying into the Cowboys trade up buzz, I can’t help it. Now, this isn’t coming from baseless optimism. First and foremost, there are plenty of credible insiders reporting Dallas is clearly interested in moving up. Secondly, it checks out.

The Cowboys know they need a blue chip defender out of this draft and LB Sonny Styles (Ohio State) makes the most sense as a target for two reasons. Cost and team needs. With two first round picks, I bet they can make something work with the Cleveland Browns at No. 6 overall.

If the Tennessee Titans wind up picking Styles at No. 4, though, it all may come crumbling down.

2. Cowboys go all defense in Top 100 picks

I don’t know that the Cowboys will be reaching for needs with their three Top 100 picks (No. 12, No. 20, and No. 92). But despite recent rumors on potentially picking a wide receiver such as Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) or Omar Cooper Jr. (Indiana), I think they stick to defense.

Dallas will respect its self-imposed “best player available” philosophy, but not radically. Tyson in the first could make sense because he’s that good, but I’m not sure there are other players who will entice Dallas as much later on.

If they move up in the first round, I expect them to pick a linebacker or edge rusher. If they stick and pick, the likeliest combo sounds like CB/EDGE based on board value. Most of their pre-draft visits point toward defense in the second and third round, as well. So even if they move down into the second, I’m expecting reinforcements for Christian Parker’s defense no matter what.

3. Dallas looks for a new offensive tackle in Day 3

With five picks in Day 3 of the draft, including three fifth rounders, I bet the Cowboys take swings at offensive tackle. They are betting on Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele going into the 2026 season, but not comfortably so.

They got Steele to agree to a pay cut in exchange of increased guaranteed money. And they’re the firsts to admit Guyton needs to take a step forward this year, meaning he hasn’t lived up to expectations yet.

With offensive coaches who preach the importance of offensive line, expect them to throw some darts at the position at some point.

One final note

You have heard this before but it’s true: This is one of the most unpredictable drafts in years. And teams armed with two first rounders like the Cowboys are in even less predictable spots.

I may miss on each of my three predictions. But that’s the fun of the NFL Draft. I’m so ready for Thursday night.