Editor's Note: The 2024 NFL Draft is approaching the end of April, and the draft process is in full swing as the Dallas Cowboys and other teams conduct their board meetings to identify the right players for the next level. There is. The DallasCowboys.com staff provides potential picks before the draft to give the Cowboys context on potential targets when the time comes. Next up is Texas A&M linebacker Edgerrin Cooper.
- name: graham burton
- position: offensive line
- College: duke
- height, weight: 6-5 / 313 (confirmed at combine)
- Combine tests: Did not take the test due to injury
- Did you know that? Despite not starting as a starter his freshman season, Burton took over at center midway through the year due to injury for the Blue Devils and finished as a second-team All-American by 2019. The Athletic. After his freshman season, he ended up seeing action only at left tackle (2,134 snaps).
One of the most tenacious offensive linemen in the entire draft, Barton brings a healthy combination of strength and technique up front, making him a very valuable prospect. His lower body strength gives him better punching power off the line, making him an interesting center option at the next level. This is also due to his arms being shorter than normal for an NFL offensive lineman, which could make the center position safer for the close range fights Burton is used to facing. His area of improvement could be pulling defenders with a run game that could earn him penalties at the next level.
He is considered a surefire candidate to go in the first round, but his name is not expected to be called until he scores in the 20s in the opening round. Experts typically peg Barton in the 24-28 range, which means the Cowboys either take him at 24 or move back a few spots to gain draft capital and still have him. Having the opportunity to nominate someone may give them a sense of security.
With the departure of Tyler Biadasz, there will be a hole at the center position heading into 2024. The Cowboys have two internal candidates for that role in Brock Hoffman and TJ Bass, but they will bring in a top draft pick. This should add to the competition this offseason. Barton could also provide flexibility at guard if the Cowboys decide he and Hoffman/Bass pairing would be more effective.
