Cowboys sign first-round pick Malachi Lawrence to rookie deal

The Dallas Cowboys signed first-round draft pick Malachi Lawrence to his four-year rookie contract, ESPN reported on Friday.

Lawrence, the 23rd overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, will receive $20.2 million in fully guaranteed money that includes an $11.2 million signing bonus. The deal also includes a fifth-year team option for the edge rusher out of UCF.

The Cowboys also selected safety Caleb Downs out of Ohio State in the first round (11th overall). The team has all of its draft class under contract.

Lawrence recorded seven sacks and 28 tackles (11 for loss) in 12 games last season with the Knights.

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This story was originally published June 5, 2026 at 12:21 PM.