MOCK: Could The Dallas Cowboys Trade Up On Day 2 of 2026 NFL Draft?

In this mock draft episode of Locked On Cowboys, hosts Marcus Mosher and Landon McCool explore the possibility of the Dallas Cowboys trading up in Round 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft to address their defensive needs. Starting with a hypothetical scenario where Jermon McCoy is healthy and selected at pick 12, the team trades down from pick 20 to 23 to acquire additional draft capital. They then attempt a bold trade-up from pick 92 to pick 53 using a 2027 second-round pick and a 2027 fourth-round pick to select linebacker Josiah Trotter from Missouri—highlighting his potential as a day-one starter. The discussion emphasizes the Cowboys’ need for front-seven help, especially at linebacker and edge rusher, and evaluates the value of trading future assets for immediate impact. The hosts also consider alternatives like Derek Moore and Malachi Lawrence, noting that the second round could be a sweet spot for finding high-impact defensive players if the right opportunity arises. While the mock isn’t perfect, it underscores the team’s likely aggressive approach if top-tier defensive talent remains available late in Day 2.