The Dallas Cowboys are preparing Caleb Downs and Jaishawn Barham to start on defense against Baltimore on Sunday, while Malachi Lawrence is expected to see important action as part of the rotation. All three are members of the team’s 2026 draft class.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said the plan is to involve the rookies extensively. “We knew we wanted our young guys to play,” he said. Schottenheimer called Downs an elite player and said Barham has created major turnovers when given opportunities. He also highlighted Lawrence’s pass-rushing ability, while noting that the young players are still developing and will make mistakes.
The rookies’ roles come as Dallas has several defensive players who missed Wednesday’s practice. Defensive backs Cobie Durant, Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke were absent, as was linebacker DeMarvion Overshown. A report from sports.yahoo.com did not give additional information about those absences. Dallas is scheduled to play Baltimore on Sunday.
Source: sports.yahoo.com.
