The Dallas Cowboys are preparing to use three members of their 2026 draft class in prominent defensive roles against Baltimore on Sunday. Caleb Downs and Jaishawn Barham are expected to start, while Malachi Lawrence is slated to handle key rotational snaps.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer said Dallas intended to give its young players significant opportunities. He called Downs an elite player and said Barham has created major turnovers whenever he has played. Schottenheimer also highlighted Lawrence’s pass-rushing ability, while noting that the rookies will make mistakes as they develop.
The rookies’ expanded responsibilities come as several Dallas defenders missed Wednesday’s practice. Defensive backs Cobie Durant, Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke were absent, along with linebacker DeMarvion Overshown. The sports.yahoo.com report did not give additional information about those absences. Dallas is scheduled to play Baltimore on Sunday.
Source: sports.yahoo.com.
