Former Dallas Cowboys safety and three‑time Super Bowl champion Darren Woodson is optimistic about the franchise’s future after the team selected quarterback Caleb Downs in the 2026 NFL Draft. Woodson, who spent his entire 12‑year career with the Cowboys and remains the franchise’s all‑time leading tackler, told NBC DFW that he is “drinking the Kool‑Aid” for the new era.
Downs brings defensive focus
Woodson highlighted how the Cowboys’ front office is making adjustments on both sides of the ball. “You’re seeing this front office make changes on the fly. And this summer, they go through the draft, they draft Caleb Downs, they start focusing on the defensive side of the football. That just brought so much joy to my heart,” he said.
Insiders have already begun comparing the rookie’s instincts to Woodson’s own play style. “I think he’s a hell of a football player. I was so excited on draft day when they drafted him; his knowledge and understanding of where to be in it,” Woodson added. He praised Downs’ preparation at Ohio State and noted the quarterback’s different demeanor, saying, “I watched him on the transition to Ohio State, and I just thought this kid was different.”
Championship expectations
Having helped the Cowboys win three Super Bowls in four years, Woodson knows what a championship defense looks like. He believes the team could add more rings, stating, “We had the chance to win four or five Super Bowls. We left something on the table. We really did. And that’s not just a Jerry and Jimmy thing. I think it speaks to all of us. We were loaded to win multiple championships. We got three out of it, but we could have probably won four or five championships.”
Family and business life
Beyond football, Woodson is thriving in family and entrepreneurship. He co‑founded the software firm Counterfind and is a partner in a Dallas commercial‑real‑estate venture. Most recently, he enjoys the simple pleasures of fatherhood, saying, “Now, I have a 10‑year‑old. Yes. And I’m dropping off at school, meeting the teacher, and doing the little things – it’s just been fun.”
He also spends time on youth fields with other parents, noting, “I’m no different. I just don’t holler during the game. I’ll holler on later on, but when it’s game time, let’s just let them have fun.”
Hall of Fame hopes
When asked about a potential Hall of Fame induction, Woodson was candid. “That’s a hard one, because I can’t control it. I cannot control that. Do I feel like I’m a Hall of Famer? Absolutely. I’m deserving of that jacket, and my teammates know that as well, so I’m satisfied with that,” he said.
Roots and faith
Woodson credits his upbringing and his mother’s sacrifices for his values. He recalled evenings without lights or water, yet emphasized the richness of a life grounded in church, community, and simple joys. “We weren’t living in the nicest houses, but the experience of going to church every Sunday, being around the community… life was good,” he reflected, underscoring the belief that where you start does not dictate where you finish.
Woodson’s optimism for the Cowboys, combined with his dedication to family, faith, and business, paints a picture of a former champion who continues to contribute to Dallas both on and off the field.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
