The Dallas Cowboys are looking to avoid another major disappointment and knew this NFL offseason they needed to reinforce their defense if they want to improve on their 2025 performance. Under that mindset, Jerry Jones promised multiple additions beyond splash signings – and he delivered.
Outside linebacker Rashan Gary brings experience and consistent pressure as a pass rusher, while Jalen Thompson is expected to take over as the starting safety. The addition of P. J. Locke adds valuable depth to the secondary, and at cornerback, Cobie Durant strengthens the starting unit.
Dallas also added Otito Ogbonnia at nose tackle and Jonathan Bullard at defensive end to bolster the line. However, the biggest gap in this rebuild remains the linebacker position.
That’s why the Cowboys could – and likely should – still turn to NFL free agency for veteran help, with Bobby Wagner as the top target. Still, all signs point to the franchise prioritizing the NFL Draft, where there are intriguing options available.
The best option for the Cowboys
In that context, SI.com analyst Justin Melo has already identified an ideal fit for Dallas: Pittsburgh linebacker Kyle Louis.
“Linebacker has been a multi-year sore spot for the Dallas Cowboys. With Sonny Styles unlikely to make it to No. 12 overall, finding a mid-round pick may be the way forward. Pittsburgh’s Kyle Louis is a supremely athletic linebacker with sideline-to-sideline range. Louis is a rising prospect who aced the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine,” Melo wrote.
At 6-foot-0 and 220 pounds, Louis is built more like a safety, which can limit him against the run defense – but he makes up for it with elite athleticism, strong coverage skills, and a knack for piling up tackles.
His best season came in 2024, when he recorded 101 tackles (15.5 for loss), 7 sacks, and 4 interceptions. However, his production dipped in 2025, raising some concerns among NFL scouts.
For Dallas, he represents an ideal developmental prospect at inside linebacker. If he can establish himself alongside DeMarvion Overshown, the Cowboys could build a highly explosive linebacker corps.
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