Dallas Cowboys: Insider's Shocking NFL Draft Predictions

Benjamin Cohen

5 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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Addressing the Offensive Line Needs

The Dallas Cowboys' offensive line needs significant improvement. Protecting Dak Prescott is paramount, and the upcoming draft presents a crucial opportunity to solidify this vital area of the team.

The Tackle Situation

The Cowboys need a starting-caliber tackle, and several top prospects are projected to be available.

• Potential draft picks:

  • Paris Johnson Jr. (Ohio State): Johnson possesses exceptional athleticism and versatility, capable of playing both tackle positions. His pass protection skills are a significant asset, aligning perfectly with the Cowboys' need to keep Prescott upright. However, his run blocking could use refinement.
  • Peter Skoronski (Northwestern): Skoronski is known for his polished technique and consistent performance. While some question his arm length, his intelligence and ability to quickly diagnose defensive schemes make him a valuable asset.
  • Anton Harrison (Oklahoma): Harrison's smooth footwork and quick reflexes make him an excellent pass protector. His run blocking needs further development but his potential is undeniable.

• Draft strategy analysis: The Cowboys could choose to trade up to secure one of these top tackles, or they might stay put and hope their target falls to them. Potential trade partners could include teams looking to move down for additional draft capital.

Interior Line Depth

Even with a starting tackle secured, depth along the interior offensive line remains a concern.

• Potential draft picks:

  • John Michael Schmitz (Minnesota): A powerful center prospect known for his run-blocking prowess and experience in a pro-style offense. He could be a day-two steal.
  • O'Cyrus Torrence (Florida): Torrence is a mauler in the run game and possesses the strength and technique to excel at guard.

• Draft strategy analysis: The Cowboys are likely to address interior line needs in the middle rounds. The value of experienced interior linemen later in the draft could outweigh the risk of drafting a raw, but potentially high-ceiling prospect earlier.

Bolstering the Secondary

Improving the secondary is another key priority for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft. Both cornerback and safety depth need bolstering to create a more formidable defense.

Cornerback Competition

The Cowboys need talented and experienced cornerbacks to provide depth and competition.

• Potential draft picks:

  • Devon Witherspoon (Illinois): Witherspoon is a physical corner with excellent ball skills and tackling ability. His aggressive style fits well in a zone-heavy scheme.
  • Christian Gonzalez (Oregon): Gonzalez is an athletic, long corner with excellent speed and coverage skills. His press coverage technique is a major strength.

• Draft strategy analysis: The Cowboys might opt to draft a cornerback early to secure a high-potential player, or they might wait and try to find value in later rounds. The depth of this year's cornerback class might allow them to wait and still find quality players.

Safety Depth

Adding depth at safety will greatly enhance the overall defensive performance.

• Potential draft picks:

  • Brian Branch (Alabama): A versatile safety who excels in both coverage and run support. His instincts and playmaking ability would make him an immediate contributor.
  • Jordan Battle (Alabama): Battle is a strong tackler with experience playing both deep and close to the line of scrimmage.

• Draft strategy analysis: The value of a starting-caliber safety may not be as high as other positions, but adding depth in the middle rounds could significantly benefit the Cowboys' defense.

Shocking Surprise Picks

This section explores the potential for unexpected draft selections that might deviate from typical "needs" analyses.

Unexpected Positional Needs

The Cowboys could surprise fans with a selection outside the expected positional needs.

• Potential picks: A pass-rushing linebacker or a versatile tight end could be in play. These selections could reflect a shift in defensive schemes or a focus on building a more well-rounded offensive attack.

• Draft strategy analysis: These unexpected selections would reflect a belief in a specific player's potential, regardless of filling immediate positional needs. The risk is that such a pick may not translate into immediate impact, however the payoff could be significant.

Trading Up or Down

The Cowboys' draft strategy could involve moving up or down in the draft to acquire specific players or accumulate more picks.

• Potential trades and their implications: Trading up would likely involve giving up future draft picks, while trading down could result in acquiring additional selections. Partners could include teams looking to acquire a specific player or needing additional picks in later rounds.

• Draft strategy analysis: Trading up is risky but increases the chances of landing a highly-rated prospect; trading down adds flexibility, but may mean missing out on a top talent.

Conclusion

This insider's look at the Dallas Cowboys' NFL Draft predictions reveals a team poised to make significant improvements to their roster. Addressing the offensive line remains a priority, but bolstering the secondary and potentially surprising fans with unexpected picks could greatly influence their success in 2024. The Cowboys' draft strategy will undoubtedly be a key storyline to watch as the NFL Draft unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the Dallas Cowboys NFL Draft predictions! Don't miss out on the exciting developments – follow us for more insights!