Personally, I wouldn't worry about that. I don't think that claiming the bag, then rechecking it will do you much good in the loss-risk department.

At DFW, there is a Grand Hyatt hotel reachable by the Sky Train. What you might consider doing is packing a carryone with some "necessities" (comfy clothes, toiletries), then seeing about a day rate for the hotel. That way you could relax in a hotel room, sleep in a real bed, take a shower, etc., during your long wait.