The Dallas Cowboys are optimistic about their 2026 NFL draft picks, particularly with rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham. Early assessments suggest that the Cowboys may have secured a standout defensive player in Caleb Downs and a potential cornerstone linebacker in Barham.
Barham, who stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighs 240 pounds, has a unique background as both a pass rusher and an off-ball linebacker. The Cowboys have decided to utilize him primarily as an off-ball linebacker, drawing comparisons to Zack Baun, a player previously associated with the Philadelphia Eagles.
With Christian Parker, a former Eagles defensive assistant, now overseeing the Cowboys' defense, the team's strategy for Barham appears clear.
Despite facing a groin injury that limited his training camp participation, Barham has shown impressive performance during the preseason. Will McClay, a key figure in the Cowboys' organization, praised Barham's mental and physical readiness, stating, "Barham is a grown man from a standpoint of, mentally, he's shown that he can handle different things that we're doing with him.
He's very physical, very intentional, and dialed in."
Barham expressed confidence in his abilities, stating, "Physicality, yeah, I showed it. There’s more to show, and you’ll see that as the year goes on." He also indicated his readiness to contribute immediately, saying, "I’m ready right now. We can play right now, for real."
