With the 23rd pick in the 2026 NFL draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected pass rusher Malachi Lawrence out of UCF. The team traded down three spots, ironically with the Philadelphia Eagles, and wound up with one of the highest risers late in the pre-draft process
The Cowboys needed another edge rusher, and they got one in Lawrence. Just one season removed from having a defensive end named Lawrence (DeMarcus), the team adds another one to help rebuild the defense. Here are five fun facts about the newest Cowboys’ pass rusher.
1. From horse country
Lawrence grew up in Louisville, Kentucky and went to duPont Manual High School. He played linebacker and tight end before moving to defensive end in college.
2. Excelled in another sport
He’s obviously an outstanding football player, but he also shined in track and field during high school. Lawrence was a shot put medalist for the state of Kentucky during his junior year.
3. Only a three-star recruit
While there was interest in Lawrence out of high school, he wasn’t a big-time recruit. The newest Cowboy was a three-star prospect who chose UCF over Tennessee, Boston College and Washington St. Lawrence was only ranked as the 13th best player in the state of Kentucky and the No. 112 defensive end in the nation in 2021.
4. Had a big senior year
Lawrence was a First-Team All-Big 12 performer during his senior season. He had a career high 28 tackles, seven sacks and 11 tackles for a loss in 2025.
5. Never had double-digit sacks
Although he was an ascending player, his college production might not have suggested a first-round prospect. Lawrence’s career high in sacks was 7.5, which came during the 2023 season, but he did finish 10th on the all-time sack list for UCF.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: 2026 NFL draft: 5 fun facts about Cowboys’ Malachi Lawrence
Reporting by Ben Grimaldi, Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
