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[Dallas Cowboys]

Can you guess this trade acquisition in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Cowboys player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Cowboys fans! We’re back for another day of the Blogging The Boys in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Friday, April 18, 2025
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

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Blogging The Boys in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Cowboys player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2025/4/19/24411834/sb-nation-cowboys-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Dallas Cowboys 2025 draft scouting report: Texas DL Alfred Collins

Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images

Here is what you need to know about Texas DL Alfred Collins

We continue our 2025 NFL Draft preview of draft prospects that could interest the Dallas Cowboys. Today we are looking at defensive lineman Alfred Collins out of Texas.

Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 332-lbs
Arm Length: 32”
Hand Size: 10”

Strengths:​

+ Impact run defender that can drastically improve a team’s run defense from day one

+ Well built, with proportional strength spread throughout his body

+ Plays with tremendous use of length to make plays in the neighboring gap

+ Uses impressive foot quickness and hand quickness to shoot gaps

+ One of the strongest players in this class showing an easy ability to shed blocks

+ Anchors in well against double teams to hold his ground and remain in the play

+ Has violent hands to toss blockers and control pads and fill holes

+ Limited pass rush profile, but has size, strength, and length to develop in that area

Weaknesses:​

- Lacks twitch and flexibility to impact the passing game on a consistent basis

- Enters the league as more of a two-down player until his pass rush profile develops

- Needs to develop hand counters to get off blocks instead of just eating space

- Taller build leads to high pads, but his strength covered up the issue in college

- Will need to play with better knee-bend to improve his pad level

- Plays with just average snap quickness

- Currently nursing a foot injury that had him in a walking boot at his Pro Day

Round Grade:​

2nd

Overall Summary:​

Alfred Collins is a run game fixer at the next level and while that trait isn’t viewed as super sexy, he’s so good in that area that he could truly fix a teams interior run defense and that’s pretty valuable. Collins brought very little to the table as a pass rusher at Texas, but his size, length, and strength should give teams something to dream about, hoping that there is more left in the tank. Collins will immediately improve a team’s run defense and has enough physical traits and power to improve as a pass rusher over time.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...-report-texas-defensvie-tackle-alfred-collins

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Dallas Cowboys 2025 draft scouting report: Ohio State RB TreVeyon Henderson

Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Could TreVeron Henderson be the pick in the second round?

We continue our 2025 NFL Draft preview of draft prospects that could interest the Dallas Cowboys. Today we are looking at running back TreVeyon Henderson out of Ohio State.

Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 202-lbs
Arm Length: 30 3/4”
Hand Size: 9 1/2”

Strengths:​

+ Explosive back with the ability to hit the home run consistently

+ Limited tread on the tires leads to a long career projection

+ Balance and power between the tackles is impressive for his size

+ High IQ runner with a good feel for attack angles

+ Three-down ability is evident on tape with his rushing, receiving, and pass blocking skills

+ Short-area quickness shines in his elusiveness

+ Trustworthy as a pass catcher that has a good feel for route running and soft zones

+ High-character guy that will be loved by coaches, scouts, and teammates

Weaknesses:​

- Smaller build back that could struggle to carry an every down back workload

- Had multiple lower body injuries in college that limited his playing time in 2023 and 2022

- Showed impressive power at OSU, but his size may limit his after contact ability in the NFL

- Posted only one year of high-end production at Ohio State

- Benefitted from quality offensive line play, quarterback play, and wide receiver play to limit loaded boxes

Round Grade:​

2nd

Overall Summary:​

TreVeyon Henderson never took over a true RB1 role at Ohio State, but he has the skill set to do so in the NFL. Henderson is a true three-down back, with the ability to impact the game as a runner, receiver, and pass protector. Despite his lack of size, Henderson offers plenty of power, explosiveness, and big-play ability that is desperately needed in the Cowboys backfield heading into the draft. Henderson is a potential option at 44 if he is there, but more than likely will not last until the Cowboys pick in the third round.

RAS Score:​

8.82

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...rt-ohio-state-running-back-treveyon-henderson

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys focused seven-round 2025 NFL mock draft

Photo by John Smolek/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Who are the Cowboys most likely to end up with in the first round in your opinion?

The 2025 NFL Draft is nearly upon us, and months of shifting player stocks and smoke screens from teams will soon come to an end. The Cowboys’ draft priorities have seemingly come into focus in recent weeks, but as we learned it can all change in a heartbeat once the picks start coming in.

With that said, let’s take one final stab at predicting this year’s draft and what kind of class the Cowboys could come away with when all is said and done.

First Round​

1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB - Miami

This selection has been written in pen for a while now. The Titans made up their minds early on Cam Ward, hence the recent decision to cancel their private workout with Shedeur Sanders. Ward is hardly a generational prospect, but he’s a playmaker with a strong arm and plenty of potential. Tennessee just has to hope they can fine tune his play and finally have a true franchise quarterback.

2. Cleveland Browns: Abdul Carter, EDGE - Penn State

The Browns have done a good job of creating a smoke screen around this pick after early reports that Abdul Carter was locked in as the pick. Still, Carter makes plenty of sense here, as he’s an elite pass rusher who can combine with Myles Garrett to make that Browns defense even more fierce than they already were, while Cleveland looks for a quarterback elsewhere.

3. New York Giants: Shedeur Sanders, QB - Colorado

Russell Wilson will almost surely start for the Giants in Week 1, and Jameis Winston offers a high-floor insurance policy behind him, but neither are the future. For general manager Joe Schoen, who some believe is operating under the belief he’s guaranteed another year beyond 2025, this is about finding the quarterback of the future. Shedeur Sanders has plenty of flaws in his game, but there are also desirable traits that suggest he could be molded into a star with the right supporting cast.

4. New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, CB/WR - Colorado

This is the best case scenario for the Patriots. They already have two really good cornerbacks in Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis, and they need some pass catching help too. Travis Hunter is the best player in this draft, and he can step in as a starter on defense while playing on offense too without being immediately relied upon to be Drake Maye’s top receiver out the gate.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, iDL - Michigan

The Jaguars had a lot of problems last year, but their defense was particularly dreadful. While there isn’t any single fix for that side of the ball, Mason Graham offers a really stout anchor in the middle for new defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile.

6. Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB - Boise State

This pick felt locked in the moment the Raiders traded for Geno Smith. Pete Carroll loves to have a workhorse running back, and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is such a run game savant that the Raiders simply can’t resist the idea of giving him the electric and explosive Ashton Jeanty.

7. New York Jets: Tyler Warren, TE - Penn State

The Jets are in a new era, with Justin Fields the presumptive starter for now. Getting him as many weapons as possible is a good plan, and Tyler Warren is exactly that. A wide receiver in a tight end’s body, Warren is a threat anywhere on the field and would make a deadly 1-2 punch with Garrett Wilson.

8. Carolina Panthers: Mykel Williams, EDGE - Ohio State

The Panthers saw signs of life from Bryce Young towards the end of last year, but their defense let them down far too often. Many will quibble about taking Mykel Williams this high, as he requires a lot of fine-tuning, but he offers a near-perfect schematic fit for Carolina with a sky high ceiling.

9. New Orleans Saints: Armand Membou, OT - Missouri

A lot of people will expect the Saints to go quarterback here, but the team seemingly knew about Derek Carr’s injury timeline for a while, and I’m not sold on them reaching for the position. Plus, they have a huge need at tackle with Ryan Ramczyk’s retirement. Armand Membou is a plug-and-play starter with perennial All Pro potential.

10. Chicago Bears: Will Campbell, OT - LSU

The Bears have already invested heavily into their offensive line this offseason, signing center Drew Dalman and trading for guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney. They’ve also seen good results from right tackle Darnell Wright, but need that fifth piece. Will Campbell may very well be the best tackle in this draft, and he can complete this offensive line for Caleb Williams.

11. San Francisco 49ers: Tetairoa McMillan, WR - Arizona

The 49ers traded away Deebo Samuel, leaving them reliant on Brandon Aiyuk and a strong sophomore campaign from Ricky Pearsall. Even so, they likely want more weapons for Brock Purdy, who is next in line for an extension that played a part in the Samuel trade. Tetairoa McMillan is a big play threat who also has plus blocking skills, a priority in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.

12. Dallas Cowboys: Will Johnson, CB - Michigan

The Cowboys would surely take Tetairoa McMillan if given the chance, but in a repeat of 2021, he comes off the board just before Dallas gets on the clock. Instead of reaching for another receiver, though, they go with the best player available, and that’s Will Johnson.

Johnson, whose full scouting report is available here, is the best cornerback in this draft not named Travis Hunter. Injuries hampered his final year at Michigan, but Johnson excels in zone coverage and has a physical style of play. He’s a pitch perfect fit for Matt Eberflus, who needs a cornerback like Johnson regardless of how quickly Trevon Diggs is able to return from his injury.

13. Miami Dolphins: Jahdae Barron, CB - Texas

The Dolphins already needed help on defense before they publicly committed to parting ways with Jalen Ramsey. Jahdae Barron is a versatile cover corner who could realistically come in and fill the void Ramsey will soon leave.

14. Indianapolis Colts: Shemar Stewart, EDGE - Texas A&M

The Colts need some added pass rush juice after losing Dayo Odeyingbo in free agency, and new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo will certainly crave a player with as much flexibility and multiple utility as Shemar Stewart, who offers plenty of traits but limited college production.

15. Atlanta Falcons: Jihaad Campbell, LB - Alabama

Atlanta needs playmakers on defense right now, and Jihaad Campbell can fill multiple roles for them. He can work as a typical off-ball linebacker while also offering secondary pass rush upside, and would give the Falcons a really useful defensive weapon.

16. Arizona Cardinals: Derrick Harmon, iDL - Oregon

By most accounts, the Cardinals would’ve made the playoffs last year with even average production on defense. Naturally, that side of the ball takes a top priority this offseason, with a gaping hole remaining in the middle of the defensive line. Derrick Harmon has seen his stock skyrocket in the last two months, and this seems like a very natural fit for both sides.

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Omarion Hampton, RB - North Carolina

This one would surprise some people. The Bengals have most of their cap space now tied up in Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, which makes sense given how much of their offense revolves around the passing game. But adding Omarion Hampton, who some believe is an even better prospect than Ashton Jeanty, gives Cincinnati a cost-controlled playmaker to help balance the offense a bit.

18. Seattle Seahawks: Matthew Golden, WR - Texas

The Seahawks jettisoned their two veteran receivers, only adding the aging and oft-injured Cooper Kupp to play alongside Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Grabbing Matthew Golden, a smooth route runner with big-play capabilities, would round out this receiving corps quite nicely for Sam Darnold.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jalon Walker, EDGE - Georgia

One prospect that has many experts split is Jalon Walker. Some view him as a pure edge rusher, and others see him more in the vein of Jihaad Campbell. Todd Bowles won’t really care, as he’s creative enough of a defensive mind to put Walker in position to wreak havoc anywhere and keep the Buccaneers defense at the top.

20. Denver Broncos: Mike Green, EDGE - Marshall

The Broncos probably would’ve loved to grab either Omarion Hampton or Matthew Golden, but they instead settle for Mike Green, hardly a consolation prize. Green is arguably the most talented edge rusher after Abdul Carter, but off-field concerns will drop him a bit. Denver doesn’t necessarily need extra pass rushers, but beefing up their defense is hardly a bad idea.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Quinshon Judkins, RB - Ohio State

The general expectation is that the Steelers will turn to Aaron Rodgers at quarterback for this year, which makes it easier for them to focus on next year’s draft to find a long term solution under center. Instead, they snag Ohio State star Quinshon Judkins to anchor their run game alongside Jaylen Warren, thereby making life easier for the aging Rodgers.

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Colston Loveland, TE - Michigan

This pick almost makes too much sense. Colston Loveland played for Jim Harbaugh at Michigan, he’s a throwback type of tight end, and he fills a need for the Chargers. Will Dissly finished third on the team in receptions last year, but Loveland’s unique skillset would offer a major upgrade to the passing attack for Justin Herbert.

23. Green Bay Packers: Kenneth Grant, iDL - Michigan

The Packers already have a great run stuffer in Kenny Clark, though he’ll turn 30 this year. Kenneth Grant offers another elite run defender and a potential successor to Clark, killing two birds with one stone for Green Bay.

24. Minnesota Vikings: Malaki Starks, S - Georgia

Harrison Smith returns for his 14th season, though the Vikings understand he’s in the twilight of his career. Malaki Starks isn’t the exact same player, but he brings positional versatility and great tackling skills, both of which are ideal for defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

25. Houston Texans: Josh Conerly, OT - Oregon

After trading Laremy Tunsil this offseason, the Texans need to beef up their blindside protection for C.J. Stroud. There are a few options at this stage of the draft, but Josh Conerly’s plus athleticism likely makes him the best fit for new offensive coordinator Nick Caley’s scheme.

26. Los Angeles Rams: Jalen Milroe, QB - Alabama

The Rams convinced Matthew Stafford to run it back with them this offseason, but they know their post-Stafford era is coming sooner rather than later. Here, they find his heir apparent. Jalen Milroe needs some refinement, but his physical tools are really intriguing. Let him sit behind Stafford and learn from Sean McVay, and Milroe could become a household name.

27. Baltimore Ravens: Carson Schwesinger, LB - UCLA

Roquan Smith continues to anchor the middle of the Ravens defense, but they’re lacking a reliable running mate for him. Carson Schwesinger, a late riser in this draft, has the perfect blend of athleticism and old school mentality that the Ravens crave.

28. Detroit Lions: Grey Zabel, OG - North Dakota State

The offensive line is the identity of this Lions team, but they have a hole at right guard after Kevin Zeitler departed in free agency. Grey Zabel has taken snaps at all five positions in college, most recently playing left tackle, but his fierce play style makes him a fit anywhere for Detroit.

29. Washington Commanders: Donovan Ezeiruaku. EDGE - Boston College

Offense wasn’t an issue in Washington, but Dan Quinn’s defense let the Commanders down more often than not. After losing their leader in sacks, Dante Fowler, don’t be surprised if Washington goes after the twitchy Donovan Ezeiruaku to beef up the defense.

30. Buffalo Bills: Maxwell Hairston, CB - Kentucky

The Bills are probably still in the market for a cornerback, even after reuniting with Tre’Davious White. Teams are very high on Maxwell Hairston, a physical cover corner whose zone expertise is a natural fit in Buffalo, and he makes a lot of sense here.

31. Kansas City Chiefs: Joshua Simmons, OT - Ohio State

This couldn’t go any better for the Chiefs, who found out the hard way that Patrick Mahomes needs better protection. Josh Simmons would almost certainly go higher than this if not for his ACL tear, but he offers a high-ceiling left tackle option to a team that badly needs him.

32. Philadelphia Eagles: Emeka Egbuka, WR - Ohio State

The Eagles love to draft money positions early, and they love to take advantage of falling prospects. Here, they get to do both with Emeka Egbuka, arguably the best route runner in this draft class. Of course, Philadelphia doesn’t need another receiver, but it’s rare for a team to have a shot at someone like Egbuka right after winning the Super Bowl.

Second Round​

33. Cleveland Browns: Jaxson Dart, QB - Ole Miss

34. New York Giants: Nick Emmanwori, S - South Carolina

35. Tennessee Titans: James Pearce Jr., EDGE - Tennessee

36. Jacksonville Jaguars: Tyler Booker, OG - Alabama

37. Las Vegas Raiders: Kelvin Banks, OT - Texas

38. New England Patriots: Luther Burden, WR - Missouri

39. Chicago Bears (from CAR): Nic Scourton, EDGE - Texas A&M

40. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Shough, QB - Louisville

41. Chicago Bears: Walter Nolen, iDL - Ole Miss

42. New York Jets: Trey Amos, CB - Ole Miss

43. San Francisco 49ers: Darius Alexander, iDL - Toledo

44. Dallas Cowboys: Jayden Higgins, WR - Iowa State

The Cowboys missed out on a wide receiver in the first round, but there are plenty of quality options still available in this draft class. With their second-rounder, they get a player with a similar skillset to Tetairoa McMillan.

Jayden Higgins stands at 6’4” and was one of the most dominant deep threats in college football this past year. Similarly, his 58.3% contested catch rate was just behind McMillan’s 60% rate. They’re not the exact same player, but Higgins adds a similar element to this offense.

45. Indianapolis Colts: Jack Bech, WR - TCU

46. Atlanta Falcons: TJ Sanders, iDL - South Carolina

47. Arizona Cardinals: Kaleb Johnson, RB - Iowa

48. Miami Dolphins: Tyleik Williams, iDL - Ohio State

49. Cincinnati Bengals: Xavier Watts, S - Notre Dame

50. Seattle Seahawks: Princely Umanmielen, EDGE - Ole Miss

51. Denver Broncos: TreVeyon Henderson, RB - Ohio State

52. Seattle Seahawks (from PIT): Elijah Arroyo, TE - Miami

53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Azareye’h Thomas, CB - Florida State

54. Green Bay Packers: Landon Jackson, EDGE - Arkansas

55. Los Angeles Chargers: Cam Skattebo, RB - Arizona State

56. Buffalo Bills (from MIN): Xavier Restrepo, WR - Miami

57. Carolina Panthers (from LAR): Shavon Revel, CB - East Carolina

58. Houston Texans: Jack Sawyer, EDGE - Ohio State

59. Baltimore Ravens: Bradyn Swinson, EDGE - LSU

60. Detroit Lions: Darien Porter, CB - Iowa State

61. Washington Commanders: JT Tuimoloau, EDGE - Ohio State

62. Buffalo Bills: Benjamin Morrison, CB - Notre Dame

63. Kansas City Chiefs: Jared Ivey, EDGE - Ole Miss

64. Philadelphia Eagles: Josaiah Stewart, EDGE - Michigan

Third Round​

65. New York Giants: Omar Norman-Lott, iDL - Tennessee

66. Kansas City Chiefs (from TEN): Dylan Sampson, RB - Tennessee

67. Cleveland Browns: Aireontae Ersery, OT - Minnesota

68. Las Vegas Raiders: Quinn Ewers, QB - Texas

69. New England Patriots: Oluwafemi Oladejo, EDGE - UCLA

70. Jacksonville Jaguars: CJ West, iDL - Indiana

71. New Orleans Saints: Elic Ayomanor, WR - Stanford

72. Chicago Bears: Jaylin Noel, WR - Iowa State

73. New York Jets: Kyle Williams, WR - Washington State

74. Carolina Panthers: Shemar Turner, iDL - Texas A&M

75. San Francisco 49ers: Demetrius Knight Jr., LB - South Carolina

76. Dallas Cowboys: Jordan Burch, EDGE - Oregon

Matt Eberflus has historically craved bigger edge players he can move around. In Indianapolis, he had Jabaal Sheard, Denico Autry, and Kwity Paye. In Chicago, he added the likes of DeMarcus Walker and Rasheem Green. Next up, he could pound the table for Jordan Burch.

Standing at 6’6” and 295 pounds, Burch has plenty of size but still primarily played out on the edge for Oregon. He took a major step forward this year as a pass rusher, notching 10 sacks. Burch offers great size and reliable pass rush depth, along with the ability to slide inside on occasional pass rushing downs. Everything Eberflus loves.

77. New England Patriots (from ATL): Marcus Mbow, OT - Purdue

78. Arizona Cardinals: Jalen Royals, WR - Utah State

79. Houston Texans (from MIA): Mason Taylor, TE - LSU

80. Indianapolis Colts: Terrance Ferguson, TE - Oregon

81. Cincinnati Bengals: Joshua Farmer, iDL - Florida State

82. Seattle Seahawks: Tre Harris, WR - Ole Miss

83. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kyle Kennard, EDGE - South Carolina

84. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kevin Winston Jr., S - Penn State

85. Denver Broncos: Elijah Roberts, EDGE - SMU

86. Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Phillips, iDL - Maryland

87. Green Bay Packers: Ozzy Trapilo, OT - Boston College

88. Jacksonville Jaguars (from MIN): Jared Wilson, C - Georgia

89. Houston Texans: Vernon Broughton, iDL - Texas

90. Los Angeles Rams: Savion Williams, WR - TCU

91. Baltimore Ravens: Lathan Ranson, S - Ohio State

92. Seattle Seahawks (from DET): Cameron Williams, OT - Texas

93. New Orleans Saints (from WAS): Alfred Collins, iDL - Texas

94. Cleveland Browns (from BUF): DJ Giddens, RB - Kansas State

95. Kansas City Chiefs: Dorian Strong, CB - Virginia Tech

96. Philadelphia Eagles: Wyatt Milum, OT - West Virginia

97. Minnesota Vikings: Tate Ratledge, OG - Georgia

98. Miami Dolphins: Jonah Savaiinaea, OG - Arizona

99. New York Giants: Anthony Belton, OT - NC State

100. San Francisco 49ers: Devin Neal, RB - Kansas

101. Los Angeles Rams: Andrew Mukuba, S - Texas

102. Detroit Lions: Tez Johnson, WR - Oregon

Fourth Round​

103. Tennessee Titans: Charles Grant, OT - William & Mary

104. Cleveland Browns: Deone Walker, iDL - Kentucky

105. New York Giants: Damien Martinez, RB - Miami

106. New England Patriots: RJ Harvey, RB - UCF

107. Jacksonville Jaguars: David Walker, EDGE - Central Arkansas

108. Las Vegas Raiders: Jacob Parrish, CB - Kansas State

109. Buffalo Bills (from CHI): Harold Fannin Jr., TE - Bowling Green

110. New York Jets: Kaimon Rucker, EDGE - North Carolina

111. Carolina Panthers: Sebastian Castro, S - Iowa

112. New Orleans Saints: Chris Paul, Jr., LB - Ole Miss

113. San Francisco 49ers: Aeneas Peebeles, iDL - Virginia Tech

114. Carolina Panthers (from DAL): Mello Dotson, CB - Kansas

115. Arizona Cardinals: Barryn Sorrell, EDGE - Texas

116. Miami Dolphins: Jamaree Caldwell, iDL - Oregon

117. Indianapolis Colts: Jonas Sanker, S - Virginia

118. Atlanta Falcons: Jeffrey Bassa, LB - Oregon

119. Cincinnati Bengals: Ashton Gillotte, EDGE - Louisville

120. Tennessee Titans (from SEA): Jalen Rivers, OT - Miami

121. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gunnar Helm, TE - Texas

122. Denver Broncos: JJ Pegues, iDL - Ole Miss

123. Pittsburgh Steelers: Cobee Bryant, CB - Kansas

124. Green Bay Packers: Bhayshul Tuten, RB - Virginia Tech

125. Los Angeles Chargers: Antwaun Powell-Ryland, EDGE - Virginia Tech

126. Jacksonville Jaguars (from MIN): Rylie Mills, iDL - Notre Dame

127. Los Angeles Rams: Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson, OT - Florida

128. Washington Commanders (from HOU): Jaydon Blue, RB - Texas

129. Baltimore Ravens: Ahmed Hassanein, EDGE - Boise State

130. Detroit Lions: Tory Horton, WR - Colorado State

131. New Orleans Saints (from WAS): Quandarrius Robinson, EDGE - Alabama

132. Buffalo Bills: Nohl Williams, CB - California

133. Kansas City Chiefs: Chase Lundt, OT - Connecticut

134. Philadelphia Eagles: Barrett Carter, LB - Clemson

135. Miami Dolphins: Jack Kiser, LB - Notre Dame

136. Baltimore Ravens: Willie Lampkin, OG - North Carolina

137. Seattle Seahawks: Will Howard, QB - Ohio State

138. San Francisco 49ers: Sai’vion Jones, EDGE - LSU

Fifth Round​

139. Minnesota Vikings (from CLE): Jacory Croskey-Merritt, RB - Arizona

140. Carolina Panthers (from NYG): Tyler Batty, EDGE - BYU

141. Tennessee Titans: Zy Alexander, CB - LSU

142. Jacksonville Jaguars: Brashard Smith, RB - SMU

143. Las Vegas Raiders: Tyler Baron, EDGE - Miami

144. New England Patriots: Connor Colby, OG - Iowa

145. New York Jets: Ajani Cornelius, OT - Oregon

146. Carolina Panthers: Benjamin Yurosek, TE - Georgia

147. San Francisco 49ers (from NO): Mitchell Evans, TE - Notre Dame

148. Chicago Bears: Jarquez Hunter, RB - Auburn

149. Dallas Cowboys: Luke Kandra, OG - Cincinnati

The Cowboys have a hole at right guard following Zack Martin’s retirement. It sounds as if the leading candidates to fill it are Brock Hoffman - who started five games there in 2024 - and recently signed Saahdiq Charles, who was set to be the Titans’ starting right guard this past year before unexpectedly retiring.

If the Cowboys want to add a rookie to the competition, though, they’d be smart to tab Luke Kandra. At 6’4” and 323 pounds, Kandra is a big boy who plays with a mauler mentality. A starter at right guard for the past two years, Kandra helped power a strong Cincinnati run game. He’s also serviceable in pass protection, not giving up a single sack this past year. He may not be ready to start in 2025, but Kandra has plenty of potential.

150. Miami Dolphins: Alijah Huzzie, CB - North Carolina

151. Indianapolis Colts: Dillon Gabriel, QB - Oregon

152. Arizona Cardinals: RJ Oben, EDGE - Notre Dame

153. Cincinnati Bengals: Simeon Barrow Jr., iDL - Miami

154. New York Giants (from SEA): Kobe Hudson, WR - UCF

155. Miami Dolphins (from DEN): Kalel Mullings, RB - Michigan

156. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jake Briningstool, TE - Clemson

157. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Riley Leonard, QB - Notre Dame

158. Los Angeles Chargers: Billy Bowman, S - Oklahoma

159. Green Bay Packers: Pat Bryant, WR - Illinois

160. San Francisco 49ers (from MIN): Trevor Etienne, RB - Georgia

161. Philadelphia Eagles (from HOU): Isaac TeSlaa, WR - Arkansas

162. New York Jets (from LAR): Upton Stout, S - Western Kentucky

163. Carolina Panthers (from BAL): Logan Brown, OT - Kansas

164. Philadelphia Eagles (from DET): O’Donnell Fortune, CB - South Carolina

165: Philadelphia Eagles (from WAS): Kyle McCord, QB - Syracuse

166. Houston Texans (from BUF): Seth McLaughlin, C - Ohio State

167. Tennessee Titans (from KC): Quincy Riley, CB - Louisville

168. Philadelphia Eagles: Tyler Cooper, OG - Minnesota

169. Buffalo Bills: Danny Stutsman, LB - Oklahoma

170. Buffalo Bills (from DAL): Nick Nash, WR - San Jose State

171. New England Patriots (from DAL): Kobe King, LB - Penn State

172. Seattle Seahawks: Robert Longerbeam, CB - Rutgers

173. Buffalo Bills: Cody Simon, LB - Ohio State

174. Dallas Cowboys: Tahj Brooks, RB - Texas Tech

The Cowboys have put themselves in a position where they don’t have to draft a running back this year. Miles Sanders and Javonte Williams can be a serviceable tandem, and Deuce Vaughn could have a breakout year now that he’s reunited with his college offensive line coach. Still, it seems likely Dallas takes a running back at some point in this draft.

Landing Tahj Brooks here in the end of the fifth in incredible value. Brooks was an all-around stud in college, topping 1,500 rushing yards in each of the last two years. He excels between the tackles and has a physical style that Brian Schottenheimer is sure to fall in love with.

175. Seattle Seahawks: Jah Joyner, EDGE - Minnesota

176. Baltimore Ravens: Thomas Fidone, TE - Nebraska

Sixth Round​

177. Buffalo Bills (from NYG): Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, EDGE - Georgia

178. Tennessee Titans: Cody Lindenberg, LB - Minnesota

179: Cleveland Browns: John Williams, OT - Cincinnati

180. Las Vegas Raiders: Tim Smith, iDL - Alabama

181. Los Angeles Chargers( from NE): Zah Frazier, CB - UTSA

182. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jackson Hawes, TE - Georgia Tech

183. Baltimore Ravens (from CAR): Andres Borregales, K - Miami

184. New Orleans Saints: Kyle Monangai, RB - Rutgers

185. Pittsburgh Steelers (from CHI): Jaylin Lane, WR - Virginia Tech

186. New York Jets: Tonka Hemingway, iDL - South Carolina

187. Minnesota Vikings (from SF): Jack Nelson, OT - Wisconson

188. Tennessee Titans (from DAL): Emery Jones Jr., OT - LSU

189. Indianapolis Colts: Antwane Wells Jr., WR - Ole Miss

190. Los Angeles Rams (from ATL): Marcus Yarns, RB - Delaware

191. Denver Broncos (from AZ): Junior Tafuna, iDL - Utah

192. Cleveland Browns (from MIA): Tai Felton, WR - Maryland

193. Cincinnati Bengals: Ty Robinson, iDL - Nebraska

194. Jacksonville Jaguars (from SEA): Dont’e Thornton Jr., WR - Tennessee

195. Los Angeles Rams (from PIT): Jonah Monheim, C - USC

196. Detroit Lions (from TB): Dylan Fairchild, OG - Georgia

197. Denver Broncos: Jordan James, RB - Oregon

198. Green Bay Packers: Kaden Prather, WR - Maryland

199. Los Angeles Chargers: KeAndre Lambert-Smith, WR - Auburn

200. Cleveland Browns (from MIN): Tyler Loop, K - Arizona

201. Los Angeles Rams: Jalin Conyers, TE - Texas Tech

202. Los Angeles Rams (from HOU): Jeremy Crawshaw, P - Florida

203. Baltimore Ravens: Caleb Ransaw, S - Tulane

204. Dallas Cowboys (from DET): Jason Dumas-Johnson, LB - Kentucky

The Cowboys have already added plenty of depth to their linebacker corps, signing Jack Sanborn and trading for Kenneth Murray, but the likelihood that DeMarvion Overshown starts the season on the PUP list means there’s still a need for added depth. The draft can come in handy for that.

At 6’1” and 245 pounds, Jason Dumas-Johnson is a prototypical Eberflus linebacker. He transferred to Kentucky from Georgia, but his tape as a Bulldog was more enticing. Still, Dumas-Johnson plays with great physicality and functional athleticism, which would make him an ideal special teams player as a rookie while offering valuable depth.

205. Washington Commanders: Miles Frazier, OG - LSU

206. Buffalo Bills: LeQuint Allen, RB - Syracuse

207. New York Jets (from KC): Jay Higgins, LB - Iowa

208. Denver Broncos (from PHI): Ricky White, WR - UNLV

209. Los Angeles Chargers: Akili Arnold, S - USC

210. Baltimore Ravens: Ollie Gordon, RB - Oklahoma State

211. Dallas Cowboys: Zeek Biggers, iDL - Georgia Tech

Where’s the beef? Dallas hasn’t exactly bulked up their defensive line thus far, with Mazi Smith and Justin Rogers their only real nose tackle options. Smith quietly proved himself over the back half of this past season, but he’ll need someone reliable to spell him.

Zeek Biggers can be that man. At 6’6” and 320 pounds, Biggers has the heft for the role without being too big, and he also has elite length. He’s still got some work to do on the fundamentals, and offers virtually no pass rush ability, but Biggers can become a very effective backup nose.

212. Baltimore Ravens: Dean Clark, S - Fresno State

213. Las Vegas Raiders: Chimere Deke, WR - Florida

214. Los Angeles Chargers: CJ Dippre, TE - Alabama

215. Las Vegas Raiders: Jake Majors, C - Texas

216. Cleveland Browns: Cam’Ron Jackson, iDL - Florida

Seventh Round​

217. Dallas Cowboys (from NE): Hollin Pierce, OT - Rutgers

The Cowboys appear ready to roll with Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele as their two starting tackles. Behind them, Asim Richards and Matt Waletzko seem to be the top candidates for the swing tackle role, but depth is needed.

Hollin Pierce offers plenty of intrigue at this stage of the draft. Listed at 6’8” and 344 pounds, he’s got rare size. He was also one of the highest graded tackles in college football this past year by Pro Football Focus. He initially started at right tackle but played left tackle the last two years, offering position versatility that makes him an ideal depth target for the Cowboys.

218. Atlanta Falcons (from CLE): Jackson Slater, OG - Sacramento State

219. New York Giants: Jason Marshall Jr., CB - Florida

220: New England Patriots: Ryan Fitzgerald, K - Florida State

221. Jacksonville Jaguars: Alijah Clark, S - Syracuse

222. Las Vegas Raiders: Jimmy Horn Jr., WR - Colorado

223. Seattle Seahawks (from NO): Teddye Buchanan, LB - California

224. Miami Dolphins (from CHI): Brady Cook, QB - Missouri

225. Arizona Cardinals (from NYJ): Kurtis Rourke, QB - Indiana

226. Kansas City Chiefs (from CAR): Timothy McKay, OG - NC State

227. San Francisco 49ers: Luke Lachey, TE - Iowa

228. Detroit Lions (from DAL): Cam Horsley, iDL - Boston College

229. Pittsburgh Steelers (from ATL): Max Brosmer, QB - Minnesota

230. Carolina Panthers (from AZ): Efton Chism III, WR - Eastern Washington

231. Miami Dolphins: Malachi Moore, S - Alabama

232. Indianapolis Colts: Kitan Crawford, S - Nevada

233. Chicago Bears (from CIN): Fadil Diggs, EDGE - Syracuse

234. Seattle Seahawks: Clay Webb, OG - Jacksonville State

235. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Samuel Brown, WR - Miami

236. Houston Texans (from DEN): Will Sheppard, WR - Coloradi

237. Green Bay Packers (from PIT): Oronde Gadsden II, TE - Syracuse

238. New England Patriots (from LAC): RJ Mickens, S - Clemson

239. Dallas Cowboys (from GB): Moliki Matavao, TE - UCLA

The Cowboys don’t have a distinct need at tight end right now, but Jake Ferguson is heading into the final year of his rookie contract and really only has one full season of starter-caliber work to his name. It wouldn’t be a shock to see them target the position late in hopes of finding a hidden gem.

They might just find that in Moliki Matavao out of UCLA. With prototypical size for the position, Matavao’s play style is more similar to the likes of Jason Witten than the modern day seam stretchers that litter the NFL. Still, Matavao has flashed plus ability after the catch, but his lone season as the starter was hampered by a new coaching staff that struggled mightily. His evaluation requires a ton of projection, but getting to work under Lunda Wells should help Matavao reach his potential.

240. Chicago Bears (from MIN): Jo’Quavious Marks, RB - USC

241. Houston Texans: LaJohntay Wester, WR - Colorado

242. Atlanta Falcons (from LAR): Ethan Downs, EDGE - Oklahoma

243. Baltimore Ravens: Fentell Cypress II, CB - Florida State

244. Detroit Lions: Smael Mondon Jr., LB - Georgia

245. Washington Commanders: Caden Prieskorn, TE - Ole Miss

246. New York Giants (from BUF): Karene Reid, LB - Utah

247. Dallas Cowboys (from KC): Melquan Stovall, WR - Arizona State

The Cowboys already found their Day 1 impact receiver in Jayden Higgins, whose play style complements CeeDee Lamb well. But the receiver room could use a little additional depth, in case Jonathan Mingo or Parris Campbell don’t pan out as viable options.

Melquan Stovall is this draft’s best kept secret, an elite athlete who feasts from the slot and also has kick return value. Most experts believe he’ll be a priority undrafted free agent, but the Cowboys can ensure they get him here and beef up their receiving depth in the process.

248. New Orleans Saints (from PHI): Montrell Johnson Jr., RB - Florida

249. San Francisco 49ers: Jordan Hancock, S - Ohio State

250. Green Bay Packers: Jalen Travis, OT - Iowa State

251. Kansas City Chiefs: Konata Mumpfield, WR - Pittsburgh

252. San Francisco 49ers: Elijhah Badger, WR - Florida

253. Miami Dolphins: Jared Harrison-Hunte, iDL - SMU

254. New Orleans Saints: Eddie Czaplicki, P - USC

255. Cleveland Browns: Andrew Armstrong, WR - Arkansas

256. Los Angeles Chargers: Nikko Reed, CB - Oregon

257. Kansas City Chiefs: Hunter Wohler, S - Wisconsin

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...mock-will-johnson-jayden-higgins-jordan-burch

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Predicting each pick for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2025 NFL Draft

Photo by John Smolek/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Who do you think the Cowboys will draft with each of their 10 picks?

It's finally draft week! The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off Thursday, April 24 and so far, barring a trade, the Dallas Cowboys hold the 12th overall pick on Day 1 of the big event. What they ended up doing with that selection is anyone's guess as of right now, and the same goes with their other nine selections in rounds 2-7.

Today, we're going to attempt to predict which player they select with their 10 draft picks this year. We based our selections on prospects they have shown an interest in throughout the draft process as well as their current roster "needs".

1.12 - WR Matthew Golden, Texas​

Golden was a 30 pre-draft visitor for the Cowboys and someone who would immediately step in and upgrade the WR2 position behind CeeDee Lamb. With his route running ability, inside/out versatility, and speed (4.29) he'd also give Dak Prescott another reliable target in the passing game.

2.44 - RB Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State​

As a 30 pre-draft visitor, Judkins is someone the Cowboys have shown an interest in. At 5'11", 211-pounds with 4.48 speed, the former Buckeyes RB is a hard-nosed, violent runner with good quickness and vision who could step in and challenge to be Dallas' new RB1 as a rookie.

3.76 - DT Shemar Turner, Texas A&M​

Turner is another 30 pre-draft visitor for the Cowboys. He is a high intensity, disruptive DT who played all across the DL at Texas A&M and can play the 1- or 3-technique in Matt Eberflus' scheme. If he can reign in/control his emotions and become more disciplined, he has the talent to be a difference-maker.

5.149 - CB Zy Alexander, LSU​

The Cowboys had a formal meeting with Zy Alexander at the NFL combine. He would provide much-needed depth at CB and has the talent to see the field early as a rookie. Despite having only average speed, he possesses good athleticism, ball skills, length, and is above average in run support.

5.174 - OT/G Caleb Rogers, Texas Tech​

Caleb Rogers was another 30 pre-draft visitor for the Cowboys. He was primarily a right tackle during his time at Texas Tech, but his long-term future at the next level will probably be kicking inside to guard. With more technical refinement he could develop into a starting caliber RG in the not-too-distant future.

6.204 - LB Cody Simon, Ohio State​

The Cowboys coaching staff was on hand at Ohio State's Pro Day, so they probably got a good look at Cody Simon. At 6'1", 232-pounds, the former buckeyes LB has the size and sideline-to-sideline range Eberflus likes at the position. He'd be a depth LB and core special-teams player early on in Dallas.

6.211 - EDGE Jah Joyner, Minnesota​

Joyner is an intriguing developmental pass rusher who could provide much-needed depth at defensive end for the Cowboys. With 34" arms and at 6'4", 262-pounds, he possesses the prototypical physical attributes of a starting caliber DE in the NFL. He can be a situational pass rusher early on while he continues to fine-tune his craft.

7.217 - CB/S Jordan Hancock, Ohio State​

Jordan Hancock is an intriguing, versatile defensive back who could provide much-needed depth to the Cowboys secondary. He was primarily the nickel CB during his time at Ohio State, but also played free safety as well. That kind position flex could be invaluable for Dallas' secondary.

7.239 - DT Elijah Simmons, Tennessee​

Elijah Simmons was part of a heavy rotation along the DL during his time at Tennessee. He showed flashes of being a disruptive player, but lacked consistency. At 6'1", 334-pounds, he has natural girth to become a stout run defender with upside as a pass rusher if he can continue develop his skill set.

7.247 - WR Isaiah Neyor, Nebraska​

At 6'4", 218-pounds and with 4.40 speed, Isaiah Neyor is an intriguing developmental WR prospect who was a "Dallas Day" participant for the Cowboys. He's arguably the most physically gifted WR in the draft class and his physical attributes are worth the Cowboys gambling on at this point in the draft.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...n-quinshon-judkins-shemar-turner-zy-alexander

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

With 3 premium draft picks, the Cowboys will have to neglect one of these position groups

Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images

Unfortunately the Cowboys are likely not going to be able to address all of their needs this week.

The 2025 NFL Draft is almost here, and with it comes some newfound hope that the Dallas Cowboys will make the right decisions and improve their roster. This is an important time for all teams, but even more for a Cowboys’ organization that relies so heavily on the draft to build their team.

As it stands right now, the team owns 10 draft picks, one each in the first three rounds and seven more scattered between rounds five, six, and seven. The first three picks are super important for the Cowboys as they serve as the team’s best chances to find good players. Those three picks are as follows:

1st Round - 12th overall
2nd Round - 44th overall
3rd Round - 76th overall

Three chances to hopefully land three good players. Unless the team can do some draft-day wizardry and trade some of their draft capital, three good players is about the best we can hope for. Of course, that does come with an asterisk that states any one of those late-round flyers has a chance to hit, but realistically speaking, we know the odds of that are poor.

Three picks. Three good players. That’s the likely scenario.

As excited as we may get for what those three picks can become, it also becomes clear that the Cowboys will have no choice but to leave some positions unattended. By unattended, we mean not using one of their three premium draft selections.

In no particular order, we know that the Cowboys need:

• A starting running back
• An upgrade at the nose tackle position
• Another wide receiving weapon other than CeeDee Lamb
• Another starting corner because of the Trevon Diggs/DaRon Bland uncertainty

That doesn’t include other things like offensive line help or safety depth, but those needs are secondary compared to the four listed above. So, what are the Cowboys to do when they have four main concerns, but only three premium picks?

Do without. That’s what they’ll do.

The question then becomes, which of these positions can they afford to neglect the most? They absolutely have to have a running back, right? They can’t go into the season with just JaVonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Malik Davis.

And please tell us that they are not content with “their guys” at wide receiver relying on Jalen Tolbert, KaVontae Turpin, Jalen Brooks, Ryan Flourney, and the trade acquisition of Jonathan Mingo to be the answers at wide receiver.

Would they dare bank on getting Trevon Diggs back at full strength this season? Do they plan on re-signing DaRon Bland? Something’s got to give because there is too much unknown right now at the position to walk out of this draft without a new rookie corner. If not, that means that Caelen Carson fella better be ready to go.

Finally, how tired are we of watching the defense get walked all over by not being able to stop the run? The team used a first-round pick on Mazi Smith a couple of years ago, but is he the guy they are counting on? Will year three of Mazi be the year the Cowboys turn a corner in the trenches and finally stop a rushing attack?

Each of these scenarios is scary in its own way, and it’s hard to determine which is the lesser of the four evils. But we’ve done the math, and something is getting left out. Which one of these situations would you be most okay?

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...o-three-running-back-cornerback-wide-receiver

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

NFC East news: Giants leaning toward defense, Commanders’ success comes through leadership

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Who do you not want to see the Eagles, Giants and Commanders draft this week?

Giants Reportedly Expected to Draft Abdul Carter Despite Push for Shedeur Sanders - Adam Wells, Bleacher Report​

After offseason QB acquisitions, it seems New York will go with a defender in the draft.

Amid a divide in the front office about what to do with the No. 3 overall pick, Abdul Carter remains the favorite to be selected by the New York Giants in the 2025 NFL draft.

On the latest episode of The McShay Show (starts at 7:15 mark), Todd McShay said all of the intel right now points to Carter being the Giants’ pick despite some people in the building “pushing” for Shedeur Sanders at three.

The Giants created intrigue after holding private workouts with Sanders, Jalen Milroe and Tyler Shough last week.

While hosting workouts this late in the process is unusual, The Athletic’s Dianna Russini noted New York’s decision-makers wanted to be “prepared for as many situations that can happen” in the draft.

One key member of the Giants who is reportedly not trying to influence things, at least right now, is owner John Mara. McShay said on Monday that Mara is “staying out of it so far,” while adding the coaching staff as a whole is “anti-taking Shedeur.”

If this means the front office is more on the side of selecting Sanders, then Mara’s presence could become critical. In the past, he has been known to cast the tiebreaking vote if the head coach and general manager are split on what to do.

Carter seems to be the consensus favorite to land with the Giants. B/R’s NFL scouting department projected the Penn State star to them in its latest mock draft.

Sanders would give the Giants, who signed Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston as free agents, a long-term option at quarterback if they want to go in that direction.

Adding Carter to a defensive line that includes Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux would be very formidable, particularly in a division with Jalen Hurts, Jayden Daniels and Dak Prescott as the quarterbacks New York has to play six times every season.

Why top draft analyst thinks Howie Roseman could trade up Thursday night - Dave Zangaro, NBC Sports Philadelphia​

Every team currently holds their own pick, but that could change.

Last year was a bit unusual for Eagles GM Howie Roseman in the NFL Draft. Instead of making a trade, he sat patiently and drafted Quinyon Mitchell at No. 22 overall.

But it’s a new year.

And NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah thinks this could be a time for Roseman to move up in the draft, especially because the Eagles are projected to have 20 picks in the next two years.

Jeremiah was on the latest Takeoff with John Clark to talk about what his former boss, Roseman, might do in the upcoming draft with all these picks in his pocket.

“I think he’d move up,” Jeremiah said. “I think there’s so many people that want to get out in this draft, that are trading back. What has Howie done his entire career? He’s zigged when everyone else has zagged. And he’s going to be able to see if we have a premier player start to slip, man, they’re armed. They’re armed and ready to go. I’m sure we get to it because we always talk about what could happen there and what the predictions might be.

“It’s impossible to make a prediction of who’s going to be there at 32 but I will make a prediction that if … for some reason people overthink Jalon Walker like they overthought Nolan Smith. ‘Oh, he’s not big enough and the size.’ If he starts to drift and drop, I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh, they could just go do the exact same thing all over again.’”

Commanders Leadership Begins With Hall-of-Fame Linebacker - Nick Faria, Athlon Sports​

Stellar coaching and players like Bobby Wagner are effective leaders.

The Washington Commanders already know how important their culture change was in turning around the season last year.

Now, we know exactly the one move made that altered everything.

When the Commanders signed linebacker Bobby Wagner to a free agent deal, they were bringing in a future Hall-of-Famer who understood how to play in Dan Quinn’s system.

His work as a leader was incredibly important, though. Especially to former second overall pick Jayden Daniels.

Speaking on the Gruden Goes Long podcast, the Commanders’ young franchise quarterback reflected on his early days in the NFL and credited Wagner with helping him navigate the league’s steep learning curve.

“Man, like Bobby, you know, that’s my guy,” Daniels said. “He’s like a big brother, little brother dynamic. He took me under his wing and everything.”

“I went in with an open mindset, like, ‘Man, I got so much to learn about this game. I don’t know anything about the NFL. I don’t know how the season’s gonna go. I’m gonna rely on the vets who’ve been through it multiple years—how they take care of their body, how they approach watching film and stuff like that.”

Wagner’s leadership helped pave the way for Daniels to be successful in their first season together.

With both being back this year, the hope is the improved culture will only enhance and develop everything in a way that will have the team fighting for a Super Bowl berth more than surprising people moving forward.

And that’s all Quinn and the Commanders can ask for.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...r-commanders-success-comes-through-leadership

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys draft: The “reach” label is thrown around a lot during the draft, but it is meaningless

Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

This is going to be a hectic week.

The dreaded R-word during every NFL draft season is “reach.” It’s a label that gets thrown around a lot, meaning a player was drafted well ahead of where analysts said he should go. Nobody wants to hear their favorite team’s picks criticized like this, but we also shouldn’t overreact if it happens. Just as every class has its busts, they also have so-called reaches who prove to be far better than expected.

Draft analysis is the annual game of speculation and big statements about players’ NFL potential. Nobody actually dies on any hill in this activity; lots of back-patting when proven right, but rarely any mea culpas or getting called out for being wrong. Draft “experts” load up on predictions, quote their own wins on social media, and hope nobody takes a screenshot of the bad ones.

Inevitably this week, a player will go a round or more ahead of where some thought he should and the pick will be called a reach. You’ll also have picks praised for their wisdom and bravery only for the player to wind up as a colossal bust. As we all know, college tape and combine numbers only tell part of the story. But just as many of the most-hyped draft prospects are complete flops in the pros, many who didn’t find that same momentum going into April will wind up as future Pro Bowlers and All-Pros.

For the modern-era Cowboys, perhaps no player better exemplified this than Travis Frederick. Even as just the 31st overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, Frederick was almost universally declared a reach by the mainstream “experts.” While generally seen as the best center prospect of the class, Frederick’s perceived talent and the position he played still made him a Day 2 pick to most. When Dallas made him their first-round pick, it was easy fodder for attention-seeking critics.

In just his second season, Frederick went to his first Pro Bowl and was named a Second-Team All-Pro. He would become a fixture for both awards until the untimely end of his career due to a neurological disorder after 2019. But even without all the chapters he should’ve added, Frederick’s story was still good enough to be one of the elite players of his draft class. That 2013 pick went from a misdiagnosed reach to one of Dallas' all-time best draft decisions.

That year, the Cowboys were going to be back on the clock 16 picks later at #47. If they’d waited until then, maybe they could have snagged another stud like TE Zach Ertz (35th) or CB Darius Slay (36th) in the first and still landed Frederick in the second round. But after two years of Phil Costa’s work at center, Dallas wanted an immediate upgrade and wasn’t willing to chance it. Thankfully, Frederick was good enough to leave nobody with regrets.

The decision to draft a player is based on a balancing of multiple factors. The key two are a prospect’s perceived talent and a team’s need at the position, but another big one is the window of opportunity from one pick to the next. The Cowboys didn’t gamble with Travis Frederick because they didn’t think he’d still be there by their second-round pick. Similarly, if you’re focused on needing a certain caliber of talent at a position, hoping someone falls to your next pick could leave you lacking.

Think about Dallas’ undeniable need for a new starting WR from this draft. Many are hoping that Arizona’s Tet McMillan falls to the 12th pick, but let’s say he doesn’t. The consensus next three prospects of Matthew Golden, Emeka Egbuka, and Luther Burden have all been in the first-round conversation for most of the cycle. There’s a generally perceived dropoff from that group to the next tier of prospects like Tre Harris, Jaylin Noel, and Jayden Higgins. If the Cowboys end up with one from the lesser group in the second round, it won’t be seen as a win by the masses.

So no, maybe you don’t see Golden, Egbuka, or Burden as a Top-15 overall prospect in this class. Some do have Golden equal with McMillan, and there’s a chance both could be off the board by then. But if the 12th pick is your opportunity to get a new starting WR and these are the only guys you believe can immediately offer that, then you may not want to gamble one of them falling into Friday.

Of course, in this scenario, we’d love to see Dallas trade down for some additional picks and still get one of the upper-tier receivers. But that requires another team to want to move up and be willing to sacrifice the capital. If they can’t find any dance partners, the Cowboys may just have to suck it up and turn in a card.

If the Cowboys draft Burden or Egbuka, perhaps even Golden at the 12th pick, then there will be critics painting the scarlet R on the decision. Maybe they’ll be right, or maybe that player will start putting out 1,000-yard seasons in short order. Rest assured, those naysayers will have little to say if it’s the latter. They’ll be on to the next draft class, loading up another cycle of speculation.

We’ve all heard of Captain Hindsight, but draft season is the time for General Guess and Admiral Assume. That isn’t to say guys who dig into the draft and have their opinions aren’t good at what they do, but the true results of a draft aren’t known by Saturday night, or even by the end of the season. All the grades, good and bad, are ultimately meaningless until there’s evidence from players’ development and production.

You take the good with the bad from every draft. Even in 2013, the Cowboys got a huge win with Travis Frederick but lost on TE Gavin Escobar with the next pick. Escobar was considered equal to, sometimes even greater than, Travis Kelce as a prospect that year. Again, you just don’t know until you see how these kids adapt to the NFL.

So don’t overreact to the flood of analysis coming this weekend as the Cowboys make their picks. Odds are, a pick you and the rest of the world love isn’t going to become the player you hoped. With that, a pick you’re indifferent to or even not happy about could be one of Dallas’ future stars. Nothing that’s been said over the last few months or is said after the draft really matters; how the teams and players maximize potential will decide where the true reaches, busts, and wins really are in the 2025 draft class.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...-matthew-golden-emeka-egbuka-travis-frederick

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Majority of Cowboys fans see a trade down in the first round of the draft

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Cowboys fans really like the idea of a trade down on Thursday.

The 2025 NFL Draft is finally here. 32 NFL teams will try to improve their roster over the next few days, but the big impacts usually come from the first-round picks. The Dallas Cowboys have 10 picks overall, and hold the 12th pick in the first round.

Over this offseason we’ve had plenty of debate about who they make take at 12. Ashton Jeanty was an early favorite until everybody realized he was going to be gone by pick 12. Wide receiver Luther Burden was also an early favorite, but he’s been replaced by Tetairoa McMillan and Matthew Golden as the overwhelming favorites.

But there is another strategy and that is to engage in trades. Either move up or move down in the first round. Moving up allows you to target a star player, but costs draft capital. Trading down can risk missing out on your guy, but it can also add important draft picks.

So what will the Cowboys do? We asked the fanbase and they overwhelmingly said the Cowboys will trade down in the first round.

The majority of fans are in the trade down camp, while a sizable minority think they will just make the pick at 12.

Only a very small group want a trade up. Moving up to something like fifth would cost a lot. We also surveyed fans nationally and for the fifth pick to the Jaguars, here is who they thought would be picked there.

While Mason Graham is the overwhelming choice, former Cowboys favorite in mock drafts, Ashton Jeanty, takes 20% of the vote while Tetairoa McMillan is at 16%. If that happened the Cowboys dream of a WR could get wiped out if Matthew Golden also went ahead of schedule.

You can check out the odds on all kind draft scenarios from our partners at FanDuel.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...shton-jeanty-tetairoa-mcmillan-matthew-golden

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Dallas Cowboys officially exercise fifth-year option on 2022 first-round pick Tyler Smith

Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Cowboys are officially exercising Tyler Smith’s fifth-year option.

The Dallas Cowboys have officially exercised the fifth-year option on 2022 first-round pick Tyler Smith. It was, making an assumption here, a pretty easy decision. News of it was reported late Thursday night following the first round of the NFL Draft and the selection of another interior offensive lineman named Tyler in Tyler Booker.

The Cowboys have picked up the fifth-year option on guard Tyler Smith for 2026. Since he has been selected to two Pro Bowls, that cost is $23.4 million.

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) April 25, 2025​

It was already three years ago when the Cowboys shocked the world and took this Tyler out of Tulsa in the first round of the NFL Draft. Like with other selections that the team has made in recent memory, some would even say the most recent one, it was a pick that was met with some immediate consternation.

To his and the team’s credit though, Tyler Smith has turned into one of the better interior offensive linemen in the NFL. What’s more is that with Zack Martin and Tyron Smith now officially gone and retired, Smith is the future of the group from a leadership standpoint. It made 100% sense for the Cowboys to exercise his fifth-year option so this isn’t really a surprise.

Exercising Smith’s fifth-year option ties him to the Cowboys (from a contractual standpoint) through the 2026 season at least, but it would behoove the Cowboys to get ahead on things (relatively speaking) and broker an extension with him to avoid any kind of difficulties down the road. Where and when have we seen those words before?

Whatever the case, what was beyond predictable is now official.

We will see if Dallas does anything further with Smith in the near future.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...year-option-2022-first-round-pick-tyler-smith

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys draft pick times: What time Dallas’ second and third round picks will happen on Friday

Mandi Wright / USA TODAY NETWORK

Here is around when the Dallas Cowboys should be making their second- and third-round pick.

The NFL 2025 Draft is underway. The Dallas Cowboys started with 10 overall picks in the draft, now they are down to nine after selecting Tyler Booker in the first round.

Currently the Cowboys hold pick number 44 in the second round, and pick 76 in the third round. The second round allows each team to take up to seven minutes to make their pick, the third round allows five minutes. That can stretch things out quite a bit.

We don't know how long each team will take, so we can only estimate when the Cowboys may be on the clock tonight. We'll go with roughly 8:00 PM ET for the Cowboys pick at 44, and 10:17 PM ET for pick 76. Obviously trades would change all that.

Our friends at FanDuel have odds on different draft scenarios. We'll take a look at some Cowboys-affiliated odds.

Dallas could be interested in the Ohio State running backs, TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins. Henderson is favored to be drafted first at -3000 while Judkins is +800.

The Cowboys have the fifth-best odds of drafting Cam Skattebo at +900.

Check out the rest of FanDuel's odds for the draft.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...-friday-44-76-treveyon-henderson-cam-skattebo

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Can you guess this 90s dynasty player in today’s in-5 trivia game?

Think you can figure out which Cowboys player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Cowboys fans! We’re back for another day of the Blogging The Boys in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​

Friday, April 25, 2025
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Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​

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Blogging The Boys in-5 instructions​

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Cowboys player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2025/4/26/24417548/sb-nation-cowboys-daily-trivia-in-5

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Dallas Cowboys 2025 undrafted free agency tracker: All reported names the Cowboys are signing

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Here is our official 2025 Dallas Cowboys undrafted free agency tracker.

The 2025 NFL Draft has officially come to an end and the Dallas Cowboys have a new group of players to work into the roster.

Before they can begin any kind of work though, the Cowboys will add to their rookie class by way of undrafted free agency. This process, if not obvious, involves the college players who were not drafted.

The Cowboys have a strong history with undrafted free agency and have found players like Tony Romo, Miles Austin and Dan Bailey to name a few. Current players like Brandon Aubrey, KaVontae Turpin and Terence Steele were UDFAs, so you never know what you are going to find.

We will be tracking all reported UDFA signings for the Cowboys as they trickle out so make sure to keep this page updated. There will be an initial flurry right after the draft ends, but the process can linger a little bit.

Last Updated: Saturday, April 26th at 8:30pm ET

---

Signings​

• Kentucky DB Zion Childress (via Jeremy Fowler)
• Oregon WR Traeshon Holden (via Brody Smoot)
• Texas Tech WR Josh Kelly (via Justin Melo)
• Auburn TE Rivaldo Fairweather (via Nick Harris)
• Syracuse DB Alijah Clark (via Syracuse)
• Syracuse LB Justin Barron (via Syracuse)
• Virginia TE Tyler Neville (via Ryan Fowler)
• Stephen F. Austin CB Bruce Harmon (via Nick Harris)
• Eastern Kentucky DB Mike Smith Jr. (via Arye Pulli)

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...y-tracker-reported-names-signing-rumors-draft

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys secure a fierce group of edge rushers by selecting Donovan Ezeiruaku

Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Cowboys’ future at edge rusher appears to be taken care of for now.

The Dallas Cowboys did it again.

For the third time in four years, the Cowboys have taken an offensive lineman in the first round. We all know about it. It’s brought up a lot, we get it. The Cowboys love guys in the trenches.

But what isn’t talked about as much is how the team has done the same thing with defensive ends in round two in each of those same drafts.

• 2022: Round 1 = OL Tyler Smith, Round 2 = DE Sam Williams
• 2024: Round 1 = OL Tyler Guyton, Round 2 = DE Marshawn Kneeland
• 2025: Round 1 = OL Tyler Booker, Round 2 = DE Donovan Ezeiruaku

And if you count Micah Parsons in 2021, they have used one of their top two picks on a defensive end in four of the last five drafts. One might say they love guys in the trenches on defense even more.

Nobody will blame them for going after pass rushers, as it’s one of the premium positions in the NFL. Load up and go! That’s the Operatus Mundi of most roster builders at the pro level. But what makes this weird is that the Cowboys keep doing this despite entering the draft deep at the position. They’ve had guys like DeMarcus Lawrence, Randy Gregory, Dorance Armstrong, and Dante Fowler on the team, yet they keep adding more edge rushers to the roster. And it’s good because those guys eventually left in free agency. Fowler is back this year, and the team added free agent Payton Turner, again keeping some decent depth on the end. Their edge rushing room entering the draft looked as follows:

1. Micah Parsons
2. Marshawn Kneeland
3. Dante Fowler
4. Sam Williams
5. Payton Turner

And now they have Ezeiruaku, giving them six total. At first glance, this might not seem like the best use of premium draft resources, especially when they have so many other needs, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

First, three players on that list above have expiring contracts after the 2025 season. The free agents, Fowler and Turner, only signed one-year deals, and Williams is on the last year of his rookie contract. Technically, four of them have expiring contracts, but we’re not counting Parsons because a long-term extension should be right around the corner. That means that while the team is set right now, this group becomes scarce after this season, leaving Parsons, Kneeland, and the recently drafted Ezeiruaku.

The second thing is that the Cowboys are coming off a year where they were struck unusually hard with injuries, with defensive ends taking the brunt of it.

• Williams missed the entire season
• Lawrence missed 13 games
• Kneeland missed six games
• Parsons missed four games

That’s a lot of edge rushers out of action. Entering the year, the team seemed equipped to handle the free agency losses of Armstrong and Fowler, but fate had other plans, and the Cowboys were left high and dry at the position. Chauncey Goltson and Carl Lawson finished second and third on the team in sacks behind Parsons.

The Cowboys will not have that problem this season, and they should have a strong core for future seasons. Ezeiruaku has the talent to find work right away. He has deceptive footwork and employs a sudden eurostep to attack the unsuspecting blocker from either side. When tackles try to get their hands on him, he’ll use his long arms to swat away any resistance. And when you think you might have him contained, Ezeiruaku still gets by you because he is one of the most bendy edge rushers in this draft class. He dips his body and accelerates around the edge. He’s just one of those pass rushers who slips by you before you can even blink. It’s quite impressive.

Another edge rusher may not have been number one on the need list, but that’s okay. The Cowboys didn’t let need keep them from taking a strong talent. Ezeiruaku should be able to work himself into the rotation this year and have a more impactful role in subsequent seasons. His physical traits, fundamentals, and mental makeup should help this guy maximize his potential and give the Cowboys a fierce pass-rushing group now and for years to come.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...shers-micah-parsons-dante-fowler-sam-williams

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys cornerback conundrum just became much more interesting with the selection of Shavon Revel Jr.

Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

The Cowboys added an insurance policy at cornerback throughout the draft.

The cornerback position group of the Dallas Cowboys is one of the biggest mysteries on their roster. On one hand, they have two All-Pro players on the roster, Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland. On the other hand, the future of those two players is murky, and everything beyond them is a great unknown. Let’s break it down.

The Trevon Diggs situation​

Diggs was sensational in his first three years in the league. He was viewed as a second-round steal for the Cowboys and flashed his great talent early before a fractured foot ended his rookie season. His second year in the league was remarkable as he finished with 11 interceptions. It was the most picks in 40 years, when Everson Walls also had 11 picks in 1981. After three good years, the Cowboys signed him to a five-year, $97 million extension, but the ink hadn’t dried on the contract before bad luck struck. Two games into the season, Diggs tore his ACL in his left knee.

It gets worse. Diggs returned last year, but his knee was never right, and after muddling through most of the year, his season was once again cut short because of his left knee. The concern is more serious now. He underwent surgery again to repair cartilage, and his 2025 season timeline to play is unclear. Additionally, the cause of this setback has been up for discussion including how Diggs handled his rehab during his initial injury, creating strife between him and the Cowboys organization.

Diggs’ 2025 salary is injury guaranteed, and the Cowboys will have given him $42 million over the past three seasons despite getting limited returns. How he recovers this year will loom large on his future with Dallas, as none of his remaining $55 million is guaranteed, and the team could release him next offseason with only a $5.8 million dead money hit. This dilemma brings us to the next complicated matter, which is...

The DaRon Bland situation​

Bland was another draft-day steal, only this time coming in the fifth round. And like Diggs, he had an amazing second year in the league with nine interceptions. He also set a new NFL record with five pick-sixes en route to his own All-Pro season. How lucky can the Cowboys get?

Last year, Bland missed the first part of the year with a foot injury. He only played seven games, and his interception totals went from nine to zero. It wasn’t because he played poorly, as he was solid down the stretch. The puzzling thing about Bland is that even though he was statistically sensational in 2023, there were elements to his game that keep him from being in the upper echelon of corners. However, other teams might view it differently should he hit free agency next offseason.

What are the Cowboys to do? Should they try to get a deal done before the start of the season? Should they wait and see, and keep the franchise tag option open to prevent him from hitting the open market? There are a lot of other factors that will go into making that decision and those factors include Diggs’ recovery, Bland’s true skills, and what the team might have in their new third-round draft pick, Shavon Revel Jr. We’ll get to him in a moment.

The depth situation​

The Cowboys were hit hard with injuries last season. Because of that, seven corners played at least 100 snaps last year - Jourdan Lewis (872), Diggs (685), Bland (436), Amani Oruwariye (286), Caelen Carson (252), Josh Butler (160), and Andrew Booth (118).

Last year’s snap count leader, Jourdan Lewis, left in free agency. Last year’s rookie, Caelen Carson, did not have a good rookie season. This leaves a lot of questions about the Cowboys' depth at corner, which could be an issue early without the presence of Diggs.

Revel in the glory of a fallen draft pick​

The Cowboys selected one of the top corners in the draft in Shavon Revel Jr., but there’s only one problem. He’s coming off a torn ACL injury himself. For that reason, he fell to the third round, which makes him an absolute steal if one has the patience to lower their expectations for his rookie season. The Cowboys are saying they do.

Talent alone, he’s a first-round corner. He has exceptional length at 6’2” with a wingspan of nearly 80 inches. He’s a menace in press coverage and is physical with those long arms to disrupt routes. He also has excellent acceleration and top-end speed to cover a lot of ground in a hurry. And despite being a slender guy, he’s a very aggressive player. He will come at you fast and use that momentum to stop runners in their tracks or even toss them to the ground. While his interception production is low, he is a pass-break-up master with the skills to create his own No Fly Shavon (sah-vone).

A lot to prove - and the talent to back it up.

Next step for @ECUPiratesFB DB Shavon Revel Jr.? 2025 #NFLDraft

: 2025 #NFLDraft – April 24-26 on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/2aY6LKIghh

— NFL (@NFL) April 5, 2025​

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...l-jr-trevon-diggs-injury-recovery-daron-bland

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Here is what the Dallas Cowboys did throughout free agency and the NFL draft

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Here is a full list of what the Cowboys did through both free agency and the NFL draft.

When it comes to the offseason there are two primary windows of opportunity for NFL teams to add to or adjust their roster. Things begin with free agency and the Dallas Cowboys do not exactly believe in utilizing it to a serious degree. This year ran a little counter to that, more on that in a moment, but anybody who has been paying attention knows that the Cowboys like to build primarily through the NFL Draft.

The draft took place this past weekend which means we know the results of both windows in question. Obviously the Cowboys could still look to add to their roster through what would technically be free agency, but the point feels understood that the bulk of what they will do and the most serious things that they will do in that sense have already happened.

Sometimes looking at all of this information together can be helpful in the name of seeing the offseason to assess the full body of work. That is what we are doing today.

Notable Dallas Cowboys Retained​

• DT Osa Odighizuwa
• WR KaVontae Turpin
• ST C.J. Goodwin
• P Bryan Anger
• LS Trent Sieg
• OL Brock Hoffman (ERFA)
• S Juanyeh Thomas (ERFA)
• DE Tyrus Wheat (ERFA)
• S Marquese Bell
• S Israel Mukuamu

Notable Dallas Cowboys Additions (Free Agency/Trade)​

• OL Rob Jones
• RB Javonte Williams
• DT Solomon Thomas
• DE Payton Turner
• CB Kaiir Elam (trade)
• LB Kenneth Murray (trade)
• LB Jack Sanborn
• RB Miles Sanders
• OT Dakoda Shepley
• DE Dante Fowler Jr.
• WR Parris Cambell
• QB Joe Milton (trade)
• OL Saahdiq Charles

2025 Dallas Cowboys Draft Class​

• Tyler Booker, G, Alabama
• Donovan Ezeiruaku, DE, Boston College
• Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
• Jaydon Blue, RB, Texas
• Shemar James, LB, Florida
• Ajani Cornelius, OL, Oregon
• Jay Toia, DT, UCLA
• Phil Mafah, RB, Clemson
• Tommy Akingbesote, DT, Maryland

There are of course several undrafted free agents who the Cowboys have signed - you can view the entire list here - and history suggests that at least one of them will make the team.

Pardon the leaning into the cheesy phrase that Stephen Jones coined, but this really does feel like being selectively aggressive. If we are going into things with an open mind, we should be, then it is difficult to not feel extremely pleased with what the team has done over the last few months.

Now, it goes without saying that the Cowboys could still look to add to the wide receiver spot. That is the lone corner of the room that they have not dusted and cleaned to this point.

But it makes perfect sense that the Cowboys will be more talented on the field in 2025 than they were a year ago (not exactly a difficult thing) and likely beyond as well.

Seeing all of the offseason together like this, how do you feel about it all?

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...ft-osa-odighizuwa-tyler-booker-solomon-thomas

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Why Cowboys’ 2025 rookie class may deliver up to four starters

Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images

How much impact are you expecting from Cowboys rookies this year?

At irregular intervals over the last decade or so, I’ve tried to project the playing time of Cowboys rookie classes, with varying degrees of success.

• In 2015, the estimate was wildly over-optimistic in projecting 3,000 snaps for a rookie class that ended up playing just 2,092 combined snaps, or 9.1% of the total offensive and defensive snaps that year.
• In 2018, the projection was that the rookie class would play 12.1% (2,838) of all offensive and defensive snaps, and it was a pleasant surprise to find that the projection was very close: The 2018 rookies played exactly 12.1% (2.786) of all snaps.
• In 2020, the projection was 2,458 snaps (10.5%), but injuries to starters pushed the rookie totals to a staggering 3,501 snaps, or 14.0% of all snaps. 2020 UDFA Terence Steele alone accounted for 968 unforeseen snaps.
• In 2021, I was a bit optimistic in projecting almost 3,000 snaps (12.7%), mostly because of vastly overestimating the impact second-round pick Kelvin Joseph would have. Joseph’s paltry 164 rookie snaps limited the 2021 class to 2,510 snaps ( 9.7%)
• In 2024, I projected one of the strongest playing time contributions by a rookie class ever with 3,200 snaps and the rookie class came extremely close with 3,221 combined snaps. Unfortunately, this wasn’t because I am blessed with the gift of prophecy or have access to some top-secret algorithm. Instead, a promising draft class got extended playing time when the Cowboys decided not to acquire or retain free agents to fill key roster holes, and subsequent injuries to veteran players forced the team to play the rookies more than they might have in a normal season.

---

Today, I’ll try yet another projection, even if we all know that preseason projections are not worth much. And I’ll try to do it by looking at comparable rookies from previous Cowboys draft classes.

We know, for example, that the Cowboys almost always get an immediate strater when they invest a first-round pick in an offensive lineman. We also know that they’ve had issues (for various reasons) getting strong first-year production from 2nd-round edge rushers, or from late-round defensive tackles not named Jay Ratliff. So picking a comparable rookie from a previous draft class will likely temper our collective optimism and give us a more realistic expectation for the 2025 rookie class.

1st Rd: OG Tyler Booker. By now, the Cowboys have quite the track record with premium draft picks selected to fill specific holes on the O-line.

[td]

Year​

[/td]​

[td]

Round​

[/td]​

[td]

Player​

[/td]​

[td]

Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

2024​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

Tyler Guyton​

[/td]​

[td]

670​

[/td]​

[td]

2024​

[/td]​

[td]

3​

[/td]​

[td]

Cooper Beebe​

[/td]​

[td]

1,061​

[/td]​

[td]

2022​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

Tyler Smith​

[/td]​

[td]

1,144​

[/td]​

[td]

2014​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

Zack Martin​

[/td]​

[td]

1,076​

[/td]​

[td]

2013​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

Travis Frederick​

[/td]​

[td]

1,025​

[/td]​

​

And we don’t have to go back very far here, we’ll use Tyler Smith and his 1,144 snaps in 2022 as a comparable for Booker.

2nd Rd: DE Donovan Ezeiruaku. The Cowboys history with Day 1/Day 2 pass rushers is less consistent. Here’s an overview going all the way back to DeMarcus Lawrence.

[td]

Year​

[/td]​

[td]

Round​

[/td]​

[td]

Player​

[/td]​

[td]

Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

2024​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Marshawn Kneeland*​

[/td]​

[td]

256​

[/td]​

[td]

2022​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Sam Williams*​

[/td]​

[td]

273​

[/td]​

[td]

2021​

[/td]​

[td]

3​

[/td]​

[td]

Chauncey Golston*​

[/td]​

[td]

414​

[/td]​

[td]

2017​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

Taco Charlton​

[/td]​

[td]

401​

[/td]​

[td]

2015​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Randy Gregory*​

[/td]​

[td]

245​

[/td]​

[td]

2014​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Demarcus Lawrence*​

[/td]​

[td]

223​

[/td]​

​

All the players(*) here except Taco Charlton missed sometimes significant playing time in their rookie seasons due to injuries or other reasons, but it’s also not easy to break through as a starter in your rookie season at this position. Ezeiruaku may not immediately be an every-down player, and still has to beat out Dante Fowler for playing time, so a good comparable might be the man he ostensibly replaces, DeMarcus Lawrence, even if Lawrence only notched 223 snaps in his rookie season.

3rd Rd: CB Shavon Revel. The hope with Revel is of course that he’ll be ready to go from day one, but that may be slightly optimistic.

[td]

Year​

[/td]​

[td]

Round​

[/td]​

[td]

Player​

[/td]​

[td]

Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

2024​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Caelon Carson​

[/td]​

[td]

252​

[/td]​

[td]

2022​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

DaRon Bland​

[/td]​

[td]

596​

[/td]​

[td]

2021​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Kelvin Joseph​

[/td]​

[td]

164​

[/td]​

[td]

2020​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Trevon Diggs​

[/td]​

[td]

757​

[/td]​

[td]

2017​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Chidobe Awuzie​

[/td]​

[td]

312​

[/td]​

[td]

2017​

[/td]​

[td]

3​

[/td]​

[td]

Jourdan Lewis​

[/td]​

[td]

748​

[/td]​

​

In 2022, DaRon Bland didn’t have a single defensive snap in five of his first six games. Maybe that’s a good comparable for Revel, with 596 snaps.

5th Rd: RB Jaydon Blue. The Cowboys have drafted far fewer mid-round RBs than I would have expected over the last 10+ years.

[td]

Year​

[/td]​

[td]

Round​

[/td]​

[td]

Player​

[/td]​

[td]

Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

2023​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Deuce Vaughn​

[/td]​

[td]

61​

[/td]​

[td]

2019​

[/td]​

[td]

4​

[/td]​

[td]

Tony Pollard​

[/td]​

[td]

204​

[/td]​

[td]

2016​

[/td]​

[td]

6​

[/td]​

[td]

Darius Jackson​

[/td]​

[td]

--​

[/td]​

[td]

2013​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Joseph Randle​

[/td]​

[td]

120​

[/td]​

​

Of the options here, I’d pick Tony Pollard and his 204 rookie snaps as a comparable. The bigger question then becomes: who’s taking all the other snaps, and I don’t know the answer to that.

5th Rd: LB Shemar James. In 2022, rookie fifth-round LB Damone Clark was thrown into action in Week 8 of his rookie season, when he replaced an injured Anthony Barr for four games, and then played five games for an injured Leighton Vander Esh. Realistically, injuries to the starters are probably the only way James sees extended playing time.

[td]

Year​

[/td]​

[td]

Round​

[/td]​

[td]

Player​

[/td]​

[td]

Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

2022​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Damone Clark​

[/td]​

[td]

398​

[/td]​

[td]

2022​

[/td]​

[td]

6​

[/td]​

[td]

Devin Harper​

[/td]​

[td]

--​

[/td]​

[td]

2021​

[/td]​

[td]

4​

[/td]​

[td]

Jabril Cox​

[/td]​

[td]

9​

[/td]​

[td]

2018​

[/td]​

[td]

6​

[/td]​

[td]

Chris Covington​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

2015​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Damien Wilson​

[/td]​

[td]

32​

[/td]​

[td]

2014​

[/td]​

[td]

4​

[/td]​

[td]

Anthony Hitchens​

[/td]​

[td]

541​

[/td]​

​

In 2014, Anthony Hitchens followed a similar trajectory. With Sean Lee on IR in 2014, the Cowboys were already thin to start the season. Hitchens played in spot spot duty until he took over as a starter when Justin Durant moved to IR in Week 9 and then further solidified his role when Roland McClain was suspended for Week 13 and beyond.

But for for Shemar James, I’ll take Damien Wilson and his 32 snaps as a comparable.

6th Rd: OL Ajani Cornelius. Fellow OL Asim Richards (2023, 5th round) saw 39 snaps in spot duty in 2023, anything beyond that would probably be a surprise at this stage. OL Nathan Thomas (2024, 7th) saw zero snaps last year. 39 snaps max for Cornelius.

7th Rd: DT Jay Toia. DT Justin Rogers (2024, 7th) didn’t play a single snap, DT John Ridgeway (2022, 5th) didn’t even make the final roster and was claimed off waivers by Washington, DT Quinton Bohanna (2021, 6th) saw a lot of action with 233 snaps, but Joey Ivie and Jordan Carrell (2017, both 7th round) didn’t make the final roster either. So where to put Toia? If the Cowboys bring in a veteran DT, Toia likely won’t see a lot of snaps. But if he and Justin Rogers are all the Cowboys have to spell Mazi Smith then he should see Bohanna-level snaps.

7th Rd: RB Phil Mafah. Comparables here are either Mike Weber (2019, 7th, 0 snaps), Bo Scarborough (2018, 7th, 0 snaps), or Darius Jackson (2016, 6th, 0 snaps). Take your pick.

7th Rd: DT Tommy Akingbesote. The last DT outside of Bohanna not to flame out in his rookie season was Sean Lissemore (2010, 7th), so I’ll use his nine rookie snaps as the comparison here.

---

Here’s what all of that adds up to:

POS

Total Rookie snaps

Rookies in % of total snaps (est.: 25,000)

[td]

2025 Draft Class Snap Count Projection​

[/td]​

[td]

Round​

[/td]​

[td]

Name​

[/td]​

[td]

Equiv. Player​

[/td]​

[td]

Year 1 Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

Year 2 Snaps​

[/td]​

[td]

1​

[/td]​

[td]

Tyler Booker​

[/td]​

[td]

OG​

[/td]​

[td]

Tyler Smith ('22)​

[/td]​

[td]

1,144​

[/td]​

[td]

1,101​

[/td]​

[td]

2​

[/td]​

[td]

Donovan Ezeiruaku​

[/td]​

[td]

DE​

[/td]​

[td]

DeMarcus Lawrence ('14)​

[/td]​

[td]

223​

[/td]​

[td]

700​

[/td]​

[td]

3​

[/td]​

[td]

Shavon Revel​

[/td]​

[td]

CB​

[/td]​

[td]

Daron Bland ('22)​

[/td]​

[td]

598​

[/td]​

[td]

1,022​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Jaydon Blue​

[/td]​

[td]

RB​

[/td]​

[td]

Tony Pollard ('19)​

[/td]​

[td]

204​

[/td]​

[td]

363​

[/td]​

[td]

5​

[/td]​

[td]

Shemar James​

[/td]​

[td]

LB​

[/td]​

[td]

Damien Wilson ('15)​

[/td]​

[td]

32​

[/td]​

[td]

284​

[/td]​

[td]

6​

[/td]​

[td]

Ajani Cornelius​

[/td]​

[td]

OL​

[/td]​

[td]

Asim Richards ('23)​

[/td]​

[td]

39​

[/td]​

[td]

181​

[/td]​

[td]

7​

[/td]​

[td]

Jay Toia​

[/td]​

[td]

DT​

[/td]​

[td]

Quinton Bohanna ('21)​

[/td]​

[td]

233​

[/td]​

[td]

265​

[/td]​

[td]

7​

[/td]​

[td]

Phil Mafah​

[/td]​

[td]

RB​

[/td]​

[td]

Bo Scarborough ('18)​

[/td]​

[td]

0​

[/td]​

[td]

0​

[/td]​

[td]

7​

[/td]​

[td]

Tommy Akingbesote​

[/td]​

[td]

DT​

[/td]​

[td]

Sean Lissemore ('10)​

[/td]​

[td]

9​

[/td]​

[td]

283​

[/td]​

[td]

2,673​

[/td]​

[td]

4,199​

[/td]​

[td]

10.7%​

[/td]​

[td]

16.8%​

[/td]​

​

Obviously, the “equivalent players” are equivalent for the purposes of the snap count only. This projection also assumes this draft class remains largely healthy; you may want to reduce the total number of projected snaps if you assume differently. You may also want to increase the snap count if you expect significant contributions from UDFAs.

The 9.9% projected snap percentage for the rookie season is a middling value if we look at the averages of the last 15 years. The best two seasons were 2013 at 15.3% (Travis Frederick, Terrance Williams, Jeff Heath, J.J. Wilcox) and 2016 at 13.5% (Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, Anthony Brown, Maliek Collins).

But the second year, if this exercise has any merit, is where things get interesting. The 16.8% is the third-best value of the last 15 years, behind only 2022 at 21.9% (Tyler Smith, Daron Bland, Jake Ferguson, Damone Clark) and 2016 at 17.2% (Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, Anthony Brown, Maliek Collins).

Aggregated, the numbers suggest the Cowboys got slightly more than the equivalent of two starters for 2025 and the equivalent of about four starters for 2026.

As you look at the numbers and comparisons above, do you expect a higher or lower number of starters?

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...rojected-snap-counts-tyler-booker-jaydon-blue

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

NFC East news: Washington will be returning to their old home

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The latest news from around the division.

Mayor Bowser and Washington Commanders announce historic deal to bring the team Home and activate 180 acres of opportunity at the RFK campus - Commanders.com​

Washington’s new era will take place in their original home.

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Managing Partner of the Washington Commanders Josh Harris announced a deal to bring the team home and activate 180 acres of opportunity at the RFK campus. With a state-of-the-art roofed stadium, the team’s return to DC will catalyze and complement the transformation of the entire campus to include housing, parks and recreation, hotels, restaurants, retail, and neighborhood amenities.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Commanders back home to the Sports Capital. We said that we could do it all – Commanders, housing, park space, recreation, retail, entertainment and more – and, together, that’s what we are delivering,” said Mayor Bowser. “When we got control of 180 acres of land on the banks of the Anacostia, we knew right away that partnering with the Commanders would be the fastest and surest route to bringing the RFK campus to life. As we focus on the growth of our economy, we’re not only bringing our team home, but we’re also bringing new jobs and new revenue to our city and to Ward 7.”

“Today is a defining moment for the DMV and the Washington Commanders. RFK Stadium holds a legendary place in our history – it’s where the team dominated the NFL, capturing three Super Bowls and creating unforgettable memories for fans. Now, we have the opportunity to honor that legacy by building a new world-class stadium – one that is also a once-in-a-generation catalyst for uplifting and transforming our region,” said Managing Partner of the Washington Commanders Josh Harris. “Working hand-in-hand with District and community leaders, we’re focused on delivering an incredible home for our players and fans, creating a landmark venue that reflects the pride of our nation’s capital, and sparking a new era of economic opportunity across the DMV. RFK was once a place our fans loved, and opponents feared – we’re determined to make it that way again.”

New York Giants depth chart: How the NFL Draft changed the roster - Ed Valentine, BigBlueView.com​

New York’s roster definitely shifted after the draft.

The 2025 NFL Draft is in the books. The New York Giants’ draft class has been well-received by fans and analysts. Let’s look at how the class has impacted the depth chart, and eventually the 53-man roster.

OFFENSE

[Draft picks are in bold. Reported undrafted free agent signings are in italic.]

Quarterback: Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston Jaxson Dart, Tommy DeVito

The ultimate success or failure of what looks like a second straight quality draft by GM Joe Schoen depends upon whether or not Jaxson Dart turns into the kind of quarterback the Giants are hoping for.

The success or failure of the 2025 season might be largely dependent upon whether or not Wilson can make the kind of late-game plays in close games that Giants quarterbacks could not make a season ago.

Running back: Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, Cam Skattebo, Eric Gray, Dante Miller

Skattebo gives the Giants the kind of bruising, tackle at your own risk, back they have not had since Brandon Jacobs. The common thought is that Skattebo likely pushes the underwhelming Eric Gray off the roster.

DEFENSE

Defensive line:

Nose tackle: Dexter Lawrence, D.J. Davidson, Jordon Riley

Defensive tackle: Rakeem Nunez-Roches, Chauncey Golston, Darius Alexander, Roy Robertson-Harris, Elijah Chatman, Cory Durden, Elijah Garcia, Jeremiah Ledbetter, Casey Rogers

Depth, depth, depth. Finally! And, upgraded talent with Chauncey Golston, Darius Alexander and Roy Robertson-Harris. Check out Nick Falato’s breakdown of why Alexander is a perfect fit for the Giants.

Outside linebacker: Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Abdul Carter, Victor Dimukeje, Tomon Fox, Trace Ford

Yes, we will have to see how defensive coordinator Shane Bowen gets enough snaps for Abdul Carter, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux. A four-man pass rush of Carter, Burns, Thibodeaux and Lawrence should be fun to watch — as long as you aren’t the quarterback on the other side.

10 leftover Eagles nuggets from the 2025 NFL Draft -Dave Znagaro, NBC Sports Philadelphia​

The Eagles went for quantity on Day 3 of the draft.

1. Day 3 strategy

Despite having a really talented roster already, the Eagles took a ton of players on Day 3. They entered Saturday with six picks but after a couple trade downs ended up with eight players. That seems a bit surprising given the talent already on the roster. One strategy could have been to target players and trade up, but the Eagles decided on a different strategy. With a lot of prospects they graded similarly on the board, GM Howie Roseman opted to have as many dart throws as possible on his favorite day of the draft.

“We felt like on the third day, that was the right strategy for us,” Roseman said. “At this time, we want to increase competition on this team. We felt like if we took multiple darts at positions that we liked players at, it increased our chance on hitting one of those players. So, it was based on the board. That was a big reason why we traded back last night, was because we felt like there was a sweet spot here that we can get a bunch of guys that we had similarly graded, and we feel fortunate that that’s how today worked out.”

There was another interesting note about Roseman’s Day 3 strategy. Ultimately, if Day 3 picks end up being viable backup and special teams contributors, that’s a fine outcome. But that’s not their goal when they make these selections, Roseman said.

“When we look at the later stages of the draft, we’re shooting for starters,” he explained. “We have this meeting this morning and I tell our scouts all the time, we can find backups. We could find backups in August, we can find backups on our team. We want to find starters. And so, if that means that we take six guys – I don’t know, how many guys did we take today? I mean, you take eight guys, and you hit on three starters, I mean, you are smoking. You are doing a really good job. So, we’re going to take shots on guys who have traits and we’re looking for guys that can make a difference.”

So Roseman’s philosophy on Day 3 is pretty clear. It’s a numbers game. The more players they pick with plus traits, the better their odds are of hitting it big.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...-new-stadium-home-giants-eagles-draft-rosters

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys roundtable: Discussing the Dallas draft and an overall grade

Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Our latest BTB Roundtable recaps what happened for the team during the NFL Draft.

Every week, we gather the latest news about the Dallas Cowboys and seek our writer’s perspective on each headline. Welcome back to the roundtable. This week we have Jess Haynie, David Howman, Tom Ryle, Sean Martin, and Brian Martin.

What’s your take on the Cowboys first round pick?​

On the opening day of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys made a significant, and somewhat controversial, move of selecting offensive guard Tyler Booker from Alabama with the 12th overall pick. This decision was part of their strategy to bolster the offensive line after losing veteran guard Zack Martin. Renowned for his physicality and leadership, Booker allowed just two sacks during his three seasons in Alabama and right now he’s positioned to become the team’s starting right guard.

Tom: While the immediate reactions were mixed, some rated Tyler Booker as the best guard in the draft, so that’s a positive. This was clearly a need-driven pick with the Zack Martin retirement, and I’m just fine with that. On day one, it is hard to fully evaluate the impact, but what stands out about Booker is that he is seen as very strong in the run game, especially when his assignment is to work in a phone booth to open holes and cut off pursuit. The follow up moves will be crucial, because this just screams more emphasis on the running game. At the end, the addition of two RBs makes this pick really make sense. It looks like Brian Schottenheimer is serious about running the ball, and Booker should help.

Just seeing a plan taking shape and having the Jones family deferring to Schottenheimer and Will McClay is cause for cautious optimism.

Brian: I have some concerns about Tyler Booker’s fit because I thought he was more of a power/gap player, but after listening to some of his interviews/press conferences I’m excited about the mentality he’s going to bring to the Cowboys OL. He should be a plug-and-play starter as Zack Martin’s replacement at RG and immediately improve the pass protection for Dak Prescott and upgrade the rushing attack. Even though I’m not completely in love with the pick, I’m still excited about the immediate impact he can make as a rookie.

Howman: I have no issue with the player. Tyler Booker is going to be a great fit at right guard, and he’s got the exact type of physicality that Brian Schottenheimer spoke about wanting. My issue comes down to the value of the pick, specifically with guys like Tyler Warren and Shemar Stewart still on the board. It’s hard to quibble with taking a good player, but it’s enough to keep me from being completely overjoyed.

Jess: Eleven years ago, Dallas added Zack Martin to the offensive line and watched it become the tide that raised all ships. DeMarco Murray’s huge year, Dallas’ big 2014 season, another big year in 2016 with Dak and Zeke as rookies; that what the Cowboys were thinking of when they drafted Tyler Booker. They’re hoping to restore elite-level play up front and seeing the entire offense benefit from it. Strategically, I get it. But thinking anyone can match the impact Martin had in Dallas is risky.

Sean: I love this pick for so many reasons. Of course, the most obvious reason is the way Dallas instantly upgraded the choices to replace a future Hall of Fame right guard from unproven swing players and career backups, to a blue-chip prospect. The second reason is his plus scheme fit in Klayton Adams’ approach to offensive line play. The criticisms of this pick are all very fair, like how the Cowboys have gone this route of building a “great wall” before but the areas they lack in because of it hinder them in big games.

There is also the ongoing comparisons between Brian Schottenheimer and Jason Garrett, only getting stronger after drafting Booker. Let’s not forget though that it took Garrett multiple years to build the offensive line into the best in the NFL, and now Schottenheimer may be starting out at this point.

Also, it’s easy to forget just how bad and dysfunctional the Cowboys were a year ago en route to a 7-10 finish, so some of that Garrett era stability and getting back on track to a winning season should be welcome. Continuing the process by getting better at the line of scrimmage is never, ever a bad idea. Tyler Booker helps them achieve this and then some.

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What do you make of the Cowboys draft picks on Day 2?​

On Day 2 the Cowboys focused on bolstering their defense and secondary. In the second round, they selected defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College with the 44th overall pick. Ezeiruaku had an impressive college career, tying the Boston College single-season sack record with 16.5 sacks in 2024 and earning the ACC Defensive Player of the Year award. This was one of the best value picks of the draft and very few experts had anything bad to say on the Ezeiruaku pick.

In the third round, with the 76th overall pick, the Cowboys drafted cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. from East Carolina. Revel was once projected as a first-round talent before an ACL injury but is now considered a high-upside addition to Dallas’s secondary. This pick carries the most questions out of Dallas’ first three selections, but if right Revel could make this draft class one of the best in recent Cowboys history.

Tom: Lots of best player at position of need here, and that’s a very good thing. A couple of draftniks here thought these were excellent choices in terms of value. Mike Poland had Donovan Ezeiruaku as a borderline first-round talent and Shavon Revel as a solid second-round prospect on his big board. David Howman had both of them on his list of the 15 best remaining players after round one.

Ezeiruaku showed a desire to build from the inside out as the follow-up to Booker. That’s a very solid approach. And Revel filled another big need. This is rather impressive.

With so many needs to address the team had to make some hard choices. The lack of offensive skill players is still a concern. Still, it is hard to criticize what they did with the ammo they had.

Brian: Although we wanted to see the Cowboys upgrade their skill positions with an impactful RB or WR, I can’t find any fault in them drafting Donovan Ezeiruaku or Shavon Revel in the second and third round. Both of these players received some first-round love during the draft process year and both of them could potentially play key roles as rookies early on with the Cowboys.

Howman: Day 2 was a dream come true. Donovan Ezeiruaku was a first-round prospect in my opinion, while Shavon Revel Jr. has first-round talent when healthy. Assuming Revel is physically good to go, I see both of these guys being impact players on defense as rookies.

Jess: Getting Revel in the third round was a great steal. I’m not as high on the Ezeiruaku pick as others, but more for the positional need than anything. He was a great value add and probably benefits us a lot in the long term. But they could’ve had the same with Will Johnson with a bigger need at CB, or gone WR with Tre Harris. If we were going to take a DE early, I would’ve preferred someone with more run-stopping potential.

Sean: There are certain philosophies when it comes to the NFL draft that stick to you more than others, and I have one that stands out head and shoulders above the rest. If you feel set at a certain position group, and don’t plan on adding to it with a premium draft pick or high-profile free agent, that is actually the best time to do so. So many teams stop themselves short of having one position group that can flat out take over games because of this, and the Cowboys have been no stranger to this. This made the Ezeiruaku pick very exciting, as the Cowboys have a full stable of athletic pass rushers with Micah Parsons leading the pack.

As for the Revel pick, there is a very, very glass half full view on this where the Cowboys also made this pick to strengthen an already strong position, but that is dependent on getting full seasons out of Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland. Much more likely, Revel is going to be forced into action at some point, go through his bumps and bruises just like Caelen Carson a year ago, and hopefully come out the other side of it a better player. Everything being reported about Revel in his return from injury indicates he is absolutely the type of prospect to bet on completing this journey. He is also a great scheme fit for Matt Eberflus.

The Cowboys pulled off a BPA masterclass on Day 2.

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Which of the Day 3 picks is your favorite?​

On Day 3, Dallas made six selections. In the fifth round, they picked running back Jaydon Blue from Texas, known for his speed and receiving skills, and linebacker Shemar James from Florida, adding depth to their linebacker corps. The sixth round saw the addition of a second offensive lineman, Ajani Cornelius from Oregon, aiming to add more competition to the offensive front. In the seventh round, the Cowboys selected running back Phil Mafah from Clemson and defensive tackles Jay Toia from UCLA and Tommy Akingbesote from Maryland, focusing on enhancing their defensive line depth

Tom: I’m picking DT Jay Toia. Dallas has been looking for a big, hard to move run stopper for a long time and he looks like exactly that. Got my pet cat.

Brian: I’m going to have to agree with Tom here and go with DT Jay Toia. He fills a huge need in the middle the Cowboys DL and should immediately upgrade their porous run defense as a rookie. I think there’s a good chance he supplants Mazi Smith as the starting 1-technique prior to the start of the 2025 NFL season.

Howman: I honestly really like all of the Day 3 picks, even if I don’t expect many of them to see significant snaps in 2025. Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah are low hanging fruit, but I’ll pump up Ajani Cornelius. He’s got some really intriguing physical tools but needs some technical refinement. If he hunkers down and learns everything he can from Conor Riley, I think Cornelius could be ready to start at right tackle in 2026, when Terence Steele’s contract conveniently has an out.

Jess: Phil Mafah seems like a perfect addition this this mix. Their only short-yardage option before him was Hunter Luepke, who hasn’t shown himself to be a real threat in that role. While Jaydon Blue may get more touches, I still see Mafah getting significant ones in key moments.

Sean: If Day 2 was a BPA masterclass, Day 3 was more of the same but with slightly more of a nod towards addressing team needs. Just a few days removed from the draft now, there are real conversations about how all three seventh-round picks in Mafa, Toia, and Akingbesote can contribute right away. By the sixth round, other teams were taking special teams players and FCS quarterbacks. The Cowboys were locked in on finding players that can help a team that had virtually no depth a year ago, and stuck with it until the end.

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Including the team’s UDFA signings, what grade do you give this Cowboys draft? ​

This was a huge BPA type draft where Dallas took great value prospects with every pick. A lot of high-character players that all have huge leadership qualities which speaks a lot about what Schottenheimer looks for in his future prospects. PFF.com gave Dallas an A+ grade for their draft and many felt this was one of the better draft classes this year. Let us know in the comments what grade you give this year’s Dallas Cowboys draft.

Tom: I don’t need to see the UDFA signings. While we have to see them on the field, this is a good bunch. I say it’s an A-. Only the lack of a receiver keeps me from giving it an A.

Brian: I think I’m going to have to give the Cowboys 2025 draft class a B+ grade. Not drafting a WR is a significant concern and I don’t really think they upgraded the RB position either. Add that to my concerns about Tyler Booker’s fit in what I expect to continue to be a zone blocking scheme and that keeps me from giving them anything better than a B+ grade. I still really liked what they did despite my concerns.

Howman: I agree with Brian, it’s a B+ from me. If receiver had already been addressed, it would’ve been an A- in my mind. Day 2 brought some incredible value, and Day 3 bolstered depth in many key areas. I’m not sure there’s more than five eventual starters in this class, but that’s still an incredible number.

Jess: It’s a B- for me. My top five needs before the draft were RB, WR, CB, DT, and OT. They only addressed one of them before the fifth round and not without opportunities to do better. It does seem like they made good value picks early, so that helps. You can do that if you’re also going to attack your needs in free agency, but as long as Dallas is going to lean heavily on the draft then they get more scrutiny for leaving needs unsatisfied.

Sean: I give this Cowboys draft class a very solid B+. This is the type of B+ where your first question for the teacher is how far off you were from an A, you find out it was only one or two, and then go play outside to forget about the frustration of all that. This team stuck to their word of getting better in the trenches, waited until their last two picks to find DT help but still did so with quality 1-technique players, bolstered the pass rush group around Parsons, and likely did just enough at RB to piece a better plan together compared to 2024. The lack of wide receiver help may very well come back to hurt them against top competition, and further help at cornerback would be appreciated, but for a team going into a season with a first-year head coach, this is the type of draft that helps lay a very solid foundation.

As for a final nugget on a Cowboys UDFA signing that peaks my interest, look out for Auburn tight end Rivaldo Fairweather. The 6’3” TE is a massive target, joining a room that already has Jake Ferguson, Luke Schoonmaker, Brevyn Spann-Ford, John Stephens Jr., and Princeton Fant. It would appear something is brewing between Schottenheimer and Adams when it comes to utilizing all of their tight ends, which is in line with how Schotty has talked about using “reduced splits” and tight formations. This group has a lot of intrigue, but Ferguson and Schoonmaker certainly have the inside track to play the most snaps. Fairweather will have his work cut out for him, but even if he doesn’t make the team, my bet is on him making a few highlight reel catches in training camp to quickly become a fan favorite.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...r-booker-donovan-ezeiruaku-shavon-revel-grade

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Way-too-early Dallas Cowboys 3-round 2026 mock draft

Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images

It's never too early to look ahead to the future for the Cowboys.

How early is too early to start looking ahead to next year's NFL draft? That's a trick question, because it's never too early. It's all in fun at this point because we still have no way of knowing which players will enter the draft next year or where they will end up being slotted, and where teams will pick, but it's still a fun exercise to do.

We used Pro Football Network's draft simulator to do a way-too-early 2026 three-round mock draft for the Dallas Cowboys. Despite upgrading their roster with their 2025 draft picks, they still have quite a few roster "needs" not only for this year, but next year as well. We tried to keep that in mind for this mock draft exercise.

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Round 1 (12) - DT Peter Woods, Clemson​

Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Peter Woods is the fourth-ranked player on PFN's big board and right now he is projected to be the first defensive tackle drafted in the first round in 2026. The 6'3", 315-pound DT is the kind of player the Cowboys need in the middle of their defensive line. His quick burst off the line and his ability to anchor down against the run make him a great fit in Matt Eberflus' 4-3 defensive scheme as either a 1- or 3-technique.

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Round 2 (44) - WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State​

Photo by CFP/Getty Images

PFN has Carnell Tate ranked as their 63rd player, but many project him to end up being a first-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. He will play second fiddle to Jeremiah Smith next season, but the 6'3", 190-pound WR has a talent to be a go-to receiver in his own rights. Pairing him with CeeDee Lamb would give the Cowboys a dynamic WR duo for years to come and take Dallas' entire offense to a different level.

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Round 3 (76) - RB Jaydn Ott, Oklahoma​

Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images

Jaydn Ott was an electric, homerun hitting running back during his time in California and it's going to be really interesting to see how things play out for him after transferring to Oklahoma. The 6'0", 210-pound RB could be exactly the kind of explosive playmaker Brian Schottenheimer is looking for for Dallas' backfield. Anytime he touches the ball as either a runner or receiver he's a threat to take it to the house.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...mock-draft-peter-woods-carnell-tate-jaydn-ott