Mock Draft Proposes Cowboys' Dramatic Trade-Up for Notre Dame Star
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, speculation intensifies, reaching a new peak with a recent mock draft scenario involving the Dallas Cowboys that has left many analysts and fans perplexed. The proposal suggests a bold move that appears to clash with the franchise's established operational philosophy under owner Jerry Jones.
Unrealistic Scenario: Trading Up for Running Back Jeremiyah Love
The mock draft by Pro Football Focus analyst Jordan Plocher outlines a dramatic scenario where Dallas would package both of its first-round selections, picks No. 12 and No. 20, to move up to the No. 3 overall spot. The target: Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. While Love is undeniably talented, with the potential to be a dynamic offensive weapon, the proposed trade raises significant questions about its feasibility and alignment with team strategy.
Jeremiyah Love possesses a skill set that could make him a first-round selection, but the cost of acquiring him in this mock draft seems excessive for the Cowboys. Dallas's defense struggled in 2025, revealing gaps at critical positions such as linebacker, edge rusher, and cornerback. Investing heavily in a running back, especially after securing Javonte Williams with a three-year, $24 million contract extension, does not address these immediate roster deficiencies.
Historical Context and Jerry Jones's Decision-Making
The justification in the mock draft leans on the perception of Jerry Jones as a high-risk owner focused on branding and spectacle. However, historical evidence suggests otherwise. The Cowboys have consistently prioritized stability in the first round, often allocating resources to foundational players like offensive linemen rather than making flashy, high-stakes gambles.
Plocher himself acknowledged the speculative nature of such projections, stating, "While every pick is researched, some are meant more in the spirit of 'what if' entertainment value rather than being predictive." This context is crucial, as it highlights the gap between draft season hype and realistic team-building logic.
Why This Move Conflicts with Cowboys' Strategy
With two valuable first-round picks at their disposal, the Cowboys are more likely to diversify their investments rather than concentrate them in a single player. A trade-up could be plausible, but leaping into the top three for a running back would represent a sharp departure from their proven approach. Key points include:
- Roster Needs: Defense requires urgent attention, making a luxury pick at running back seem misaligned.
- Financial Considerations: The recent investment in Javonte Williams reduces the urgency for another high-cost running back.
- Historical Precedent: Dallas has a track record of calculated moves, not headline-chasing risks.
In essence, this mock draft scenario serves more as a reflection of draft season excitement than a realistic blueprint for the Cowboys' future. It underscores the ongoing tension between entertaining speculation and the pragmatic realities of NFL team management.
