Dallas Cowboys Draft Preview: A Deep Dive into Potential Picks
With the NFL draft less than a month away, the Dallas Cowboys are in the thick of their final evaluations. They're hosting Pro Day visits and prospect meetings at The Star in Frisco, gearing up for a pivotal draft.
After acquiring a third-round pick from the 49ers in exchange for defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, the Cowboys now boast eight picks, including three in the top 100. Let's break down a potential seven-round mock draft for the Cowboys, using insights from the Pro Football Focus mock draft simulator.
Round 1, Pick 12: CB Mansoor Delane (LSU)
Mansoor Delane is generating buzz after clocking a 4.45 in his Pro Day 40-yard dash. Standing at 6-foot and weighing 187 pounds, Delane's senior season saw him allow just 14 receptions for 165 yards.
His versatility in both man and zone schemes makes him an ideal fit for defensive coordinator Christian Parker's system. Delane could be a day-one starter and a top-15 cornerback as a rookie.
This pick would be a slam dunk for Dallas.
Round 1, Pick 20: DE T.J. Parker (Clemson)
While trading down from this spot is tempting, if the Cowboys stay put, T.J. Parker is a solid choice. After a formal meeting at the combine and a Pro Day workout with defensive line coach Marcus Dixon, Parker's physical presence and pass rush potential make him a promising addition to the Cowboys' 3-4 scheme.
Round 3, Pick 92: S Kamari Ramsey (USC)
Snagging Kamari Ramsey late on day two is a strategic move. Throughout his college career, Ramsey allowed 59 receptions for 494 yards.
His two interceptions don't tell the whole story; his range forces quarterbacks to play it safe. With Donovan Wilson gone and Jalen Thompson in, Ramsey offers depth and competition for Malik Hooker at free safety.
Round 4, Pick 112: LB Harold Perkins Jr. (LSU)
Harold Perkins Jr. brings a dynamic presence despite a roller-coaster college career. As a freshman, he recorded 7.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss.
Injuries and coordinator changes affected his production, but his athleticism remains top-tier. While his 6-foot-1, 223-pound frame poses positional questions, his raw talent could be the solution.
Round 5, Pick 152: RB Emmett Johnson (Nebraska)
Adding a running back like Emmett Johnson on day three could spice up the competition behind Javonte Williams. Johnson ended his season with five straight 100-yard games, including a 217-yard performance against Iowa. His quickness and gap-scheme ability make him a perfect complement in the Cowboys' backfield.
Round 5, Pick 177: LB Aiden Fisher (Indiana)
The Cowboys might look to the trade market for a middle linebacker, but drafting Aiden Fisher would be a smart move. His high IQ and ability to diagnose plays make up for any athletic limitations. Fisher's special teams impact and depth are exactly what Dallas needs from a fifth-round pick.
Round 6, Pick 180: DT Zane Durant (Penn State)
With Odighizuwa gone, adding a defensive tackle is crucial. Zane Durant, known for his explosiveness, clocked a 4.75-second 40-yard dash at the combine. His on-field performance at Penn State, with 15.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks, speaks volumes about his potential impact.
Round 7, Pick 218: WR Noah Thomas (Georgia)
With Jalen Tolbert's departure, there's room in the receiving corps. Noah Thomas, a 6-foot-5 physical threat, could fill that gap. His size and ability in contested catch situations make him a valuable addition for both special teams and offensive packages.
The Cowboys are poised to make strategic moves in this draft, setting the stage for a strong season ahead.