Cowboys Hunting Crucial Position in Clear Draft Plan
As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a critical crossroads. After a season marked by flashes of brilliance overshadowed by familiar playoff shortcomings, the front office is under mounting pressure to execute a draft strategy that addresses glaring needs—particularly in the trenches. While fans clamor for a flashy skill-position pick, the Cowboys’ clearest path to sustainable success lies in fortifying their offensive line, signaling a focused, no-nonsense draft approach.
The State of the Roster
Dallas enters the draft with several holes, but none more pressing than along the offensive line. Long-time anchor Tyron Smith is no longer with the team, having signed with the New York Jets in free agency. While Smith’s departure was anticipated, the move leaves the left tackle position in flux. Though the team has internal candidates such as Tyler Smith—who could kick outside from guard—the depth and long-term stability at the position are lacking.
The Cowboys also face questions at center and right tackle. Injuries and inconsistencies plagued the unit last season, disrupting offensive rhythm and exposing quarterback Dak Prescott to relentless pressure in key moments. Without reliable protection, the offense struggled in short-yardage and red-zone situations, undermining its overall effectiveness.
Jerry Jones and the Front Office: All Business?
For once, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office appear aligned in their intentions. Instead of floating smokescreens or entertaining trade-up scenarios for high-profile weapons, early signs suggest a disciplined, position-focused draft plan. Recent visits and workouts have heavily featured top offensive line prospects—indicating that Dallas is doing its homework and intends to use its first-round pick on the trenches.
Among the prospects drawing interest are Notre Dame’s Joe Alt, Alabama’s JC Latham, and Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga. While Alt may be off the board by the time Dallas picks at 24, Latham and Fuaga offer pro-ready skill sets and positional versatility. Both linemen are known for their physicality, football IQ, and ability to play multiple spots across the line—traits that would make them invaluable additions to a Dallas front five in flux.
Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Vision
Drafting a lineman in the first round doesn’t just fill a short-term need—it’s a long-term investment in the health of the franchise. With Prescott entering a make-or-break year and the running game still seeking a true identity, a dominant offensive line could be the catalyst that elevates the entire unit.
Furthermore, a smart, focused draft aligns with head coach Mike McCarthy’s vision. With play-calling responsibilities remaining in his hands, McCarthy has emphasized the importance of physical football—running the ball, winning in the trenches, and controlling the tempo. The draft offers a chance to reinforce that identity.
Don’t Rule Out Other Priorities
While offensive line is clearly the top priority, Dallas has other needs that could shape the later rounds of the draft. The team has yet to identify a true bell-cow running back after parting ways with Tony Pollard. Though they signed Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year deal, he’s clearly a short-term piece. Prospects like Trey Benson (Florida State), Audric Estimé (Notre Dame), or Braelon Allen (Wisconsin) could be strong Day 2 or Day 3 targets to bolster the backfield.
Linebacker and defensive tackle also remain on the radar. The Cowboys’ defense under Dan Quinn took a step forward last season, but with Quinn now in Washington and the team transitioning under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, reinforcements in the front seven are likely. Look for them to target a space-eating defensive tackle or a rangy linebacker to replace the oft-injured Leighton Vander Esch.
The Dak Prescott Factor
Any move the Cowboys make in this draft must also be viewed through the lens of Prescott’s future. With contract negotiations ongoing and his cap number ballooning in 2025, the team is walking a tightrope. Investing in protection for Dak sends a strong message: the front office is committed to giving him the best chance to succeed—at least for now.
However, if talks stall or Prescott underperforms, the Cowboys may soon find themselves in the quarterback market. That makes this draft even more important: securing foundational players now could ease the eventual transition, should they need to retool around a younger signal-caller.
Conclusion: A Test of Discipline
This draft represents a pivotal moment for the Dallas Cowboys. With clear needs and limited cap flexibility, they can’t afford to swing and miss. Instead of reaching for splashy names or luxury picks, they must stick to a clear, disciplined plan centered around the offensive line.
If they do, the rewards could be immense: a revitalized offense, a more balanced team, and perhaps, at long last, a postseason breakthrough.
The time for talk is over. The Cowboys are on the clock—and their next move could define the franchise for years to come.
