The Dallas Cowboys are making headlines with a bold draft projection that might raise a few eyebrows. Despite the team's glaring defensive needs, there's chatter about them going after a star receiver in the first round. Let's break down the reasoning behind this unexpected move.
The Cowboys' strategy, led by Jerry Jones, typically marries available talent with their most pressing needs. Logic would suggest a defensive pick at No. 12 and again at No.
- But, according to recent reports, the Cowboys might have a different plan.
This offseason, Dallas has been focused on defense, acquiring pass rusher Rashan Gary from the Packers and adding safety Jalen Thompson and cornerback Cobie Durant through free agency. Yet, after a season with the league's worst defense, you'd expect more defensive reinforcements.
Enter the buzz around adding a top receiver. If George Pickens remains with the team, the idea is to bring in Tate, moving CeeDee Lamb to the slot, creating a dynamic setup for Dak Prescott.
Let’s dive deeper:
Level 1: Tate is projected as a top-10 pick, so if he falls to Dallas at No. 12, it would be surprising. More so, it would be unexpected for the Cowboys to deviate from their defensive focus to add another receiver.
Level 2: Despite rumors, the Cowboys have no plans to trade Pickens. Even if contract negotiations hit a snag, a scenario where Pickens holds out over his $27.3 million salary seems unlikely before the draft. So, linking Pickens' situation to drafting Tate doesn't quite add up.
Level 3: While adding Tate could provide a long-term solution if Pickens departs, it doesn't address the immediate need to improve from last season's 7-9-1 finish. The team's struggles weren't due to a lack of receiver talent. Ryan Flournoy and KaVontae Turpin have already proven their worth as reliable options.
Drafting Tate, who had an impressive 2025 season with Ohio State, could give Dallas the best receiver trio in the league. This might make the offense more explosive, but it wouldn't necessarily solve their defensive issues. Consequently, the Cowboys could find themselves in a similar position as last year.
The beauty of picking high in the draft is the ability to select the Best Available Player who also fills a need. Among the top prospects, there are defensive talents as promising as Tate. While a pick like Tate would be flashy, it would be surprising if the Cowboys overlook the defensive potential available to them.
In the end, the Cowboys face a pivotal decision: bolster their offense or shore up a defense that needs attention. The choice could define their 2026 season.