Cowboys NFL Draft: Your Ultimate Guide

by Jhon Lennon 39 views

Hey Cowboys fans! Are you hyped for the NFL Draft? I know I am! It's that time of year when we all become armchair general managers, dreaming of the next superstar to don the star. This year, the Cowboys have some crucial needs to address, and the draft is the perfect opportunity to fill those holes. So, grab your draft boards, and let's dive into everything you need to know about the Cowboys' NFL Draft strategy, potential targets, and what to expect when the picks are announced. I'll break down the key positions the Cowboys will likely target, analyze some top prospects, and give you my takes on how the draft could unfold for America's Team. Let's get this party started, shall we?

Cowboys' Biggest Needs Heading Into the Draft

Alright, guys, let's be real. The Cowboys have a few areas where they need to significantly upgrade their roster if they want to make a serious run at a Super Bowl. Identifying these needs is the first step in understanding their NFL Draft strategy. Here's a breakdown of the positions where the Cowboys are most likely to focus their attention:

  • Offensive Line: This is arguably the most pressing need. While the Cowboys have a solid foundation, injuries and inconsistency have plagued the offensive line in recent years. Specifically, the guard position needs significant improvement. Adding a dominant guard or two in the draft could make a huge difference in protecting Dak Prescott and opening up running lanes for the running backs. It is very important to make Prescott stay healthy. Offensive line play is crucial, and it's something the Cowboys have recognized as a priority.
  • Defensive Tackle: The Cowboys' defensive line could use some beef in the middle. They need a run-stuffing defensive tackle who can also generate some interior pressure. This is a position where they could find a day-one starter to solidify the defense. The ability to disrupt the opposing team's running game is going to be extremely important. A strong defensive tackle will help improve the overall effectiveness of the defense.
  • Linebacker: Depending on how free agency shakes out, the linebacker position could also be a target. Adding a sideline-to-sideline linebacker who can cover ground and make plays against the run and pass would be a valuable asset. This position requires both athleticism and intelligence to succeed. Having a linebacker who can read plays quickly is going to be another key.
  • Cornerback: While the Cowboys have invested in the cornerback position in recent drafts, they can never have too much talent in the secondary. Adding depth or finding a potential starter to compete for playing time could benefit the team in the long run. The cornerback position is one where competition is always good. The ability to cover receivers in the pass-heavy NFL is essential.
  • Safety: Similar to cornerback, the safety position could be another area of focus, depending on the availability of talent and the team's assessment of their current players. This position needs to be able to make tackles and be able to provide safety over the top. The need to provide support for the pass defense is essential.

These are the primary areas where the Cowboys will be looking to add talent in the draft. Of course, things can change based on how the board falls and which players are available when they are on the clock. It's also worth noting that the Cowboys, under Jerry Jones, have never been afraid to take the best player available, even if it's not at a position of immediate need.

Top Draft Prospects to Watch for the Cowboys

Now for the fun part: speculating about which players the Cowboys might target! Here are some of the top prospects who could be on their radar, broken down by position:

  • Offensive Line:
    • Joe Alt (OT, Notre Dame): Alt is considered one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the draft. While the Cowboys already have a solid tackle in Tyron Smith, they could draft Alt to play guard or as a future replacement for Smith. Alt's size, athleticism, and technique make him a valuable asset.
    • Taliese Fuaga (OT, Oregon State): Fuaga is another highly-rated offensive tackle who could be a good fit. He is a powerful run blocker and has the potential to develop into a strong pass protector. This player can provide a physical presence and could provide depth and competition.
    • Troy Fautanu (OT/OG, Washington): Fautanu is a versatile offensive lineman who can play both tackle and guard. His versatility and athleticism would be valuable to the Cowboys. The potential for him to play multiple positions is another plus for this player.
    • Graham Barton (C/OG, Duke): Barton is an excellent center with the versatility to play guard. His intelligence and technique make him a potential day-one starter. His ability to anchor the interior offensive line is a great addition.
  • Defensive Tackle:
    • Jer'Zhan Newton (DT, Illinois): Newton is a disruptive defensive tackle with a knack for getting into the backfield. He has a high motor and is always around the ball. This guy brings a lot of energy to the game.
    • Byron Murphy II (DT, Texas): Murphy is a powerful defensive tackle who excels at stopping the run and generating pressure. He plays with great leverage and is a relentless competitor. His ability to penetrate the offensive line is essential.
    • T'Vondre Sweat (DT, Texas): Sweat is a massive run-stuffer who can occupy multiple blockers. He's a force in the middle of the defensive line. His strength and size would be a welcome addition to the Cowboys' defense.
  • Linebacker:
    • Payton Wilson (LB, NC State): Wilson is an athletic linebacker with excellent instincts and sideline-to-sideline range. He is a tackling machine and can cover a lot of ground. His speed and ability to pursue the ball carrier are impressive.
    • Edgerrin Cooper (LB, Texas A&M): Cooper is a versatile linebacker who excels against the run and pass. He has good size and speed and can make plays in space. He brings a combination of athleticism and versatility.
  • Cornerback/Safety:
    • Quinyon Mitchell (CB, Toledo): Mitchell is a physical cornerback who excels in man coverage. He is a ball hawk and has a knack for making plays on the ball. His physicality and ball skills are attractive to NFL teams.
    • Terrion Arnold (CB/S, Alabama): Arnold is a versatile defensive back who can play both cornerback and safety. He is a hard hitter and has a nose for the ball. His versatility provides options in the secondary.
    • Tyler Nubin (S, Minnesota): Nubin is a ball-hawking safety with excellent instincts and ball skills. He has good size and can make plays in the run game. His ability to make plays on the ball would be a great addition.

This is just a small sample of the players who could be on the Cowboys' radar. The draft is always full of surprises, and there will undoubtedly be other players who rise up the draft boards as we get closer to draft day. The Cowboys' scouting department has been hard at work evaluating these prospects and others to determine which players best fit their needs and schemes.

Cowboys Draft Strategy: What to Expect

So, what can we expect from the Cowboys' draft strategy this year? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Best Player Available vs. Need: Jerry Jones has a tendency to draft for value. If they feel there is a player who is significantly better than anyone else available, they will likely take him, even if it's not at a position of immediate need. The Cowboys aren't afraid to take the best player available, regardless of position.
  • Trading: The Cowboys have a history of trading up or down in the draft. They could trade up to secure a player they really want or trade down to acquire more picks. This allows the team to be flexible and capitalize on opportunities.
  • Focus on the Trenches: Given their biggest needs, expect the Cowboys to prioritize offensive and defensive line in the early rounds. Building a strong foundation in the trenches is crucial for success in the NFL. They need to address the offensive and defensive lines, which are critical to the team's success.
  • Day 3 Value: The Cowboys are usually good at finding value on Day 3 of the draft (rounds 4-7). They will be looking for players who can contribute on special teams and develop into rotational players. The later rounds are where you can find hidden gems.

It's important to remember that the draft is an inexact science. Every team is trying to predict the future. The Cowboys' draft strategy will be influenced by several factors, including which players are available, how the board falls, and their evaluation of each player's potential. Having a plan is one thing, but reacting to the draft board is essential.

Mock Draft Predictions: My Take on How It Might Unfold

Alright, guys, let's have some fun and throw out some mock draft predictions! Keep in mind that these are just my guesses, and the actual draft will likely be very different. Here's how I think the Cowboys' first few picks might look:

  • Round 1, Pick 24: Offensive Lineman. I think the Cowboys will target an offensive lineman here. Depending on who's available, I could see them going after Joe Alt, Taliese Fuaga, or Troy Fautanu. These players can add a lot of value and are worthy of their first pick. The offensive line is the priority, and the team will try to bolster it.
  • Round 2, Pick 56: Defensive Tackle. If they don't address the defensive tackle position in the first round, I think they'll go after one here. Jer'Zhan Newton or Byron Murphy II could be available. These players bring much-needed depth and talent to the defense. Adding a defensive tackle is a logical pick at this point.
  • Round 3, Pick 87: Linebacker. I think the Cowboys will look to add a linebacker here, possibly Payton Wilson or Edgerrin Cooper, depending on who's available. The team needs to address the linebacker position and add depth. Adding a linebacker can bring a lot of value to the team.

This is just a possible scenario. The Cowboys could also go in a different direction depending on how the board falls. They could trade up or down, or they could target a different position altogether. The draft is all about adaptability and making the best decisions at the moment.

Conclusion: Get Ready for Draft Day!

So there you have it, folks! That's my take on the Cowboys' NFL Draft prospects, needs, and strategy. I am very excited to see how this draft unfolds for our beloved Cowboys. Remember to stay tuned for updates, analysis, and reactions as the draft gets closer. There are many unknowns, so we should keep our minds open. The draft is a time for hope, optimism, and the belief that the Cowboys are building a team that will compete for a Super Bowl. I hope you found this guide helpful and informative. Let me know your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! Go Cowboys!