Former U.S. president Bill Clinton made an unexpected appearance at the Dallas Cowboys pre-draft press conference on April 22, 2026, briefly interrupting proceedings ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Clinton walked into the room while team owner Jerry Jones and other executives were addressing the media. “I’m negotiating the draft,” Clinton quipped as he entered the press conference.
Jones attempted to greet Clinton but nearly fell off the dais in the moment. He quickly regained his balance before completing the greeting. “I’m glad to see ya,” Jones said. Clinton replied, “Thank you, I’m glad to see you. Have a good draft day.”
Jones also reflected on their long-standing relationship. “He’s been a wonderful not only president but a friend over the years, and really happy to have you here today,” he said.
Clinton served as president during the Cowboys’ most recent Super Bowl victories in the 1990s. The team visited the White House following those championships, including their first visit in 1993 after winning Super Bowl XXVII.
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The Dallas Cowboys hold the No. 12 and No. 20 selections in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, which kicked off on April 23.
2026 NFL Draft: Raiders Take Fernando Mendoza No. 1 Overall As Cowboys And Saints Strike Gold
The 2026 NFL Draft officially began on April 23, with the Las Vegas Raiders selecting Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. The first round featured several notable selections and outcomes across the league.
The New York Jets used the No. 2 pick to draft David Bailey, while the New York Giants added Arvell Reese at No. 5 and later selected Francis Mauigoa to strengthen protection for quarterback Jaxson Dart.
The Arizona Cardinals selected Jeremiyah Love, while Ty Simpson joined a roster led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, positioning him to develop before taking on a larger role.
The New Orleans Saints drafted wide receiver Jordyn Tyson to support their offense. The Cowboys used their first two rounds to select safety Caleb Downs and edge rusher Malachi Lawrence to address defensive needs.
Other first-round developments included the Philadelphia Eagles trading up to No. 20 to draft Makai Lemon, while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Rueben Bain Jr. at No. 15 after he slid from early projections.
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The Cleveland Browns traded down and selected Spencer Fano at No. 9 before adding wide receiver K.C. Concepcion at No. 24. The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Max Iheanachor in the first round. The first round concluded with all 32 teams making selections as the draft continued into subsequent rounds.
