The Dallas Cowboys got a bittersweet update that could change their 2026 NFL Draft approach
The Dallas Cowboys “likeliest” first-round pick isn’t looking very likely anymore.
Not that long ago, I labeled cornerback Mansoor Delane out of LSU the likeliest pick for the Dallas Cowboys ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
That is changing for one big reason: Delane may not be on the board when the Cowboys go on the clock at No. 12 overall. And the latest development is another reason why.
Delane runs blazing 40-yard dash
Delane didn’t test at this year’s combine, leaving questions about his 40-yard dash. Already seen as one of the best defensive prospects of the year, a good time running the 40 yards was expected to pencil him in as the top cornerback of the class.
Well, we finally have a time.
On Monday, Delane participated in LSU’s Pro Day and clocked in at 4.35 seconds on his 40-yard dash. That mark would have ranked second in this year’s combine.
Consider that box checked for Delane, who has a pre-draft visit scheduled with the Cowboys. His speed combined with his sticky coverage, ball skills, physicality, and high football IQ will boost his stock in the final month before the draft.
While that is a positive for the Cowboys if they end up drafting him, it’s a bittersweet development as it looks increasingly unlikely for Delane to fall to No. 12.
Delane is expected to go in the Top 10
There are many cornerback-needy teams picking in front of the Cowboys, including the New York Giants, Cincinnati Bengals, Washington Commanders, Kansas City Chiefs, and Miami Dolphins.
With Delane all but crowning himself CB1 with his 4.35 time in the 40-yard dash, him falling to No. 12 is a long shot.
The next 40-yard dash to watch?
When it comes to cornerback prospects, the Cowboys are expected to take a close look at Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy Pro Day on March 31. It will be the first time NFL teams get to see the talented cornerback on the field since he suffered a torn ACL in January of 2025.