With the NFL Draft just a month away, excitement is at an all-time high, and we’re starting to see clear directions for many teams. Today, we are breaking down the Dallas Cowboys draft strategy after a lackluster start to free agency. The team has continued their streak of avoiding players over $10 million in free agency and this roster is not much better after a few departures. Let’s breakdown where the Cowboys are at and what they should do in the upcoming draft to get back into the playoffs.
Cowboys Offseason Recap
Let’s start with a quick recap of their offseason moves. The Cowboys have $38 million in cap space, but their decisions so far have been questionable. Key departures include Zack Martin, DeMarcus Lawrence, Jourdan Lewis, Rico Dowdle, Chauncey Golston, Brandin Cooks, and Cooper Rush.
The two biggest losses, in my opinion, are Martin and Dowdle. Martin’s retirement leaves a massive hole at guard despite showing signs of regression last season. Rico Dowdle on the other hand proved to be a valuable back down the stretch but the Cowboys decided to let him walk in free agency.
Rather than bringing Dowdle back on a cheap deal, the Cowboys opted for Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, more expensive options without necessarily improving the position. Both Williams and Sanders have struggles with injuries and poor play over the last two seasons.
As for the other additions, names like Kenneth Murray, Kair Elam, Dante Fowler Jr., Robert Jones, Jack Sanborn, and Solomon Thomas don’t exactly jump off the page. That said, I do like the Sanborn signing. He was a solid player in Chicago but got lost in the shuffle due to big contracts. He could be a sneaky good pickup for Dallas and was the 39th ranked linebacker in the NFL according to PFF.
Overall, the Cowboys’ offseason hasn’t been anything special, making this draft crucial for their success.
Cowboys’ 7-Round Mock Draft
The Cowboys head into the draft with significant needs at wide receiver and running back. The wide receiver position behind CeeDee Lamb has been a question mark for two seasons, and there is no indication that they will be signing Stefon Diggs or Amari Cooper. As for the running back position, the additions of Williams and Sanders are not enough for this offense to succeed in 2025. Finding a running back in this deep draft class will be a must for the Cowboys
Defensively, I expect them to address some of their problems at the interior defensive line position. Both Mazi Smith and Solomon Thomas were two of the lowest graded players at their position last season. Dallas needs to get a guy to clog up the middle for years to come.
Round 1, Pick 12: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
The Cowboys need another playmaker alongside CeeDee Lamb, and Tet McMillan can be that guy. He’s an elite route runner and explosive downfielder, and he gives Dak Prescott a legitimate second weapon. With Matthew Golden already off the board, McMillan is the best wide receiver available and an absolute steal at No. 12.
Round 2, Pick 44: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ole Miss
Dallas needs a true RB1, and Quinshon Judkins fits the bill. He’s an underrated pass-catcher and was a flat-out beast in college. His efficient running style and elite production make him an instant upgrade. I don’t see the Cowboys leaving this draft without a running back, and Judkins is a perfect fit.
Round 3, Pick 76: Joshua Farmer, DT, Florida State
The Cowboys’ interior defensive line remains a major concern. Signing Solomon Thomas doesn’t fix it, so adding Farmer makes sense. He’s a strong run-stopper and could be a key piece in solidifying their defensive front.
Round 5, Pick 149: Luke Kandra, G, Cincinnati
With Zack Martin gone, Kandra could be his replacement. He’s one of the better pass-blocking interior linemen in this draft and has been consistently solid throughout his career. In Schottenheimer’s offense, he’d have a real shot at becoming an early starter and a key piece on the O-line.
Round 5, Pick 171: Cody Simon, LB, Ohio State
With DeMarvion Overshown’s status uncertain, Dallas needs linebacker depth. Simon is a well-rounded defender who can contribute both as a run-stopper and in coverage, making him a valuable mid-round addition.
Round 5, Pick 174: Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU
Jones is a sleeper in this draft class and gives Dallas much-needed depth at offensive tackle. He has the potential to develop into a starter, making this a smart mid-round pick.
Round 6, Pick 204: RJ Mickens, S, Clemson
Malik Hooker needs a running mate in the secondary, and Mickens could be that guy. He had a strong final season at Clemson and could develop into a solid rotational safety.
Round 6, Pick 211: Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville
There have been rumblings about Dallas potentially adding a quarterback in the draft. I strongly advise Jerry Jones and company to wait until their final four picks to do so and Shough is a good value here in the 6th.
Round 7, Pick 239: Johnny Walker Jr., EDGE, Missouri
Dallas adds more pass-rushing help behind Micah Parsons. Walker Jr. is a raw prospect, but his potential makes him worth a late-round flyer.
Round 7, Pick 244: Mac McWilliams, CB, Ole Miss
With potential changes coming to the Cowboys’ CB unit, adding depth late in the draft isn’t a bad idea. McWilliams had a solid year and could be a sleeper pick in the secondary.
Final Thoughts
The Cowboys have had an underwhelming offseason, making this draft their best chance to fill key roster gaps and remain competitive in the NFC. By adding an explosive playmaker in Tetairoa McMillan, securing a true RB1 in Quinshon Judkins, and reinforcing both the offensive and defensive lines, this draft class could provide the foundation Dallas needs to stay in the playoff hunt.
While free agency hasn’t delivered much excitement, the right selections in April could get this team back on track. Now, it’s up to the Cowboys’ front office to make the right moves.
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