The Dallas Cowboys are preparing to use three rookies in expanded defensive roles when they face Baltimore on Sunday. Caleb Downs and Jaishawn Barham, both among the team's leading selections in the 2026 draft, are expected to start, while Malachi Lawrence is set to receive snaps as part of the rotation.
The plan comes after four Dallas defenders missed Wednesday's practice. Cornerback Cobie Durant, safeties Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke, and linebacker DeMarvion Overshown were absent. A report by sports.yahoo.com did not give additional information about why they missed practice.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer said the Cowboys intended to put their younger players on the field, saying, "We knew we wanted our young guys to play." He called Downs an elite player and said Barham has generated major turnovers when given playing time. Schottenheimer also highlighted Lawrence's pass-rushing ability while noting that mistakes are part of the rookies' development.
Source: sports.yahoo.com.
