The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly confirmed their first-round selection of Missouri Tigers edge rusher Damon Wilson II in the 2026 NFL Draft, according to Field Yates’ latest mock draft. Wilson, coming off a breakout season with the Tigers, is projected to go 28th overall, filling a key defensive need for Dallas after the departure of Micah Parsons.
Wilson’s 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular. After transferring from Georgia, he exploded onto the scene with 9.0 sacks, nearly tripling his combined total from the first two seasons of his college career. Known for his length, first-step quickness, and edge-rushing flexibility, Wilson made his presence felt in big games, recording four sacks against top-10 opponents.
The Cowboys’ front line has already been bolstered with the addition of Quinnen Williams, and pairing him with Wilson is expected to create a fearsome pass-rush combination. Wilson tallied 49 pressures this season, second in the SEC, and will be just 21 years old come draft day, making him one of the youngest first-round prospects.
While Wilson is leading the Tigers’ first-round buzz, fellow edge rusher Zion Young also had a strong campaign with 6.5 sacks. At 6-foot-5 and 262 pounds, Young has the prototypical NFL size and strength, keeping him in the conversation for early-round selection as well.
The Cowboys’ choice of Wilson signals a continued commitment to shoring up their defense, and fans are eager to see how this dynamic edge rusher will translate his college success to the professional level.
