Cowboys sign first-round pick Malachi Lawrence to rookie deal

Field Level Media|published: 06/05/2026, 12:27pm EDT

May 1, 2026; Frisco, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Malachi Lawrence (57) goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images

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.

--Field Level Media