The Dallas Cowboys selected Malachi Lawrence, an edge rusher from the University of Central Florida, with the 23rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The selection came after the Cowboys traded up from the 20th pick, sending that selection to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for the 23rd pick to secure Lawrence.
Lawrence, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 253 pounds, recorded a career-high 11 sacks during his final season at UCF in 2025. He finished his collegiate career with 20 total sacks, placing him 10th on UCF’s all-time sack list. His athleticism was on full display at the 2026 NFL Combine, where he ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, posted a 40-inch vertical leap, and recorded a broad jump of 10 feet 10 inches — all measurements ranking in the top 25 all-time for his position group among over 2,000 combine performers since 2000.
The Cowboys’ move to select Lawrence reflects their strategy of adding versatile defensive pieces capable of operating in multiple fronts. Lawrence played both outside linebacker and defensive finish at UCF, giving the Cowboys flexibility as they transition to a primarily 3-4 defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Christian Parker. His ability to rush the passer from different alignments and his experience in both roles were cited as key factors in the decision.
Scouting reports highlighted Lawrence’s explosive first step, weaponized length — including nearly 34-inch arms — and his ability to convert speed to power off the edge. Analysts noted his tendency to generate interior pressure through well-timed hand usage and his capacity to create splash plays in the backfield. However, concerns were raised about his consistency and occasional struggles when engaged by larger blockers at the point of attack, particularly in run defense.
Despite those limitations, Lawrence’s upside as a potential double-digit sack producer in the right scheme was emphasized. Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranked Lawrence No. 36 on his Top 300 big board for the 2026 draft, praising his play urgency and length whereas acknowledging the need for refinement in his rush technique when stalled by powerful offensive linemen.
Lawrence becomes the fifth player in UCF football history to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft and the highest-drafted defensive player in program history. He is also the 53rd overall draft pick from UCF and the 18th since the university joined the FBS ranks in 2017. His selection marks the second UCF defensive lineman chosen in the NFL Draft since 2022.
The pick underscores the Cowboys’ continued investment in upgrading their pass rush through both free agency and the draft. By moving up in the first round to secure Lawrence, Dallas signaled its commitment to adding a young, athletic edge rusher with high upside and positional versatility to complement existing pieces on the defensive line.
As the 2026 NFL season approaches, Lawrence will compete for a role in the Cowboys’ defensive rotation, with expectations that he contribute immediately in sub-package situations and develop into a more consistent every-down player over time. His development will be closely monitored as Dallas seeks to elevate its defensive performance in the highly competitive NFC East.
Stay tuned to Archysport.com for continued coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft and analysis of how each selection impacts team trajectories heading into the new season.
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