The Ohio State Buckeyes continue to dominate the early rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. Four Buckeyes have been selected within the first 11 picks, with the Dallas Cowboys securing the latest Ohio State talent by drafting safety Caleb Downs at No. 11 overall.
To make the move, the Cowboys traded up from their original position at No. 12 in a deal with the Miami Dolphins. Dallas surrendered two fifth-round selections—pick No. 177 and pick No. 180—to facilitate the trade.
The acquisition of Downs addresses a key need for Dallas, which struggled defensively in 2025. The Cowboys aim to bolster a unit that fell short of expectations last season.
For the Dolphins, the trade provides much-needed young, cost-effective talent. Miami is carrying $99.2 million in dead money over the next two years due to the unfulfilled contract of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, making roster flexibility and draft capital particularly valuable.