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After another disappointing playoff performance, the Dallas Cowboys are looking to the 2024 NFL Draft in hopes of improving.
The Dallas Cowboys are too good as a team, and a talented team, to be so disappointed. In reality, it should be meaningful to be at the top of the league in goals scored and fewest goals conceded. But Dallas found itself trying to find answers after leaving the postseason early. Although the Cowboys need an infusion of young talent at certain positions, the core of this franchise remains strong. As a result, the most important problems seem to be more mental than physical. Regardless of whether an overbearing owner or pressure plays a role, the team needs to make some kind of statement in 2024. A great draft will help that effort.
trade
For the purposes of this mock draft, the Cowboys sent the 56th overall pick to Houston for the 59th pick and the 127th pick. If you're wondering why? Houston selected defensive tackle Braden Fisk from Florida State University.
24th overall (Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma)
With the departure of Tyron Smith, Dallas needs a capable replacement. Although he's not as dynamic as Smith, who is bound for Canton. Right now, the Cowboys need an anchor, a blindside protector, to move their offense forward. The first thing that jumps out about Guyton is his ability to use pinpoint punches upon first contact. This sets up the rest of the block and allows him to control the reps. Additionally, despite his size, the prospect is light on his feet and shows agility when sliding laterally.
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59th overall (Jonathan Brooks, RB, Texas)
After a seemingly bland thousand-yard season; tony pollard Dallas resets with Brooks. First and foremost, Brooks doesn't avoid contact and finishes his runs with aplomb. What the game boils down to is that when some tough yards are needed, the prospect is willing to get those yards, even by going through defenders if necessary. Additionally, his ability to catch out of the backfield gives the offense a complete weapon on the perimeter.
87th overall (Jeremiah Trotter, Jr., LB, Clemson)
The irony of drafting the son of a former rival is hard to ignore. However, young Trotter plays the game differently than his father. With outstanding coverage ability combined with pursuit and blitz ability, Landry's sons are able to recruit linebackers who can handle and succeed in any task assigned to them. Trotters love to maintain gap integrity as opposed to runs, passing through gaps and stopping. Most importantly, Clemson has seen significant improvement season after season.
127th overall (Marson Smith, DL, LSU)
In football, the best ability is availability. For Marson-Smith, his versatility should pay dividends right away. For example, the former LSU lineman can play any position along the defensive line, whether odd or even up front. By lining up a zero over the center or putting a nine on the outside shoulder of a tight end, Smith creates pressure. His height, power and good first step allow the Cowboys to use him in any situation.as demarcus lawrence Fulfilling his contract and witnessing the last of the former Tiger doesn't feel too far out of the realm of possibility.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYLDU1NNE
174th overall (Nick Gargiulo, OL, South Carolina)
At one time, the Dallas Cowboys boasted the highest-paid offensive line. Both top and bottom Pro Bowlers. Most importantly, those players were durable. The need for depth never really surfaced. The need for reserves is now becoming apparent. A former Gamecock/Yale Bulldog, Gargiulo brings excellent footwork and spatial blocking ability to the team. Granted, he may never see a starting spot, but his athletic ability allows for a spot start, which is what you want from a third-day pick.
216th overall (Cedric Johnson, Edge, Mississippi)
Micah Parsons shouldn't take on the pass rush burden alone. Teams try to double and sometimes triple him. No other Dallas EDGE returns with such consistent regularity. That being said, a player like Ole Miss' Cedric Johnson could serve as a pass rush specialist. Nothing fancy. The Cowboys could put him in passing situations and use his combination of strength and speed to create pressure. At this point, Johnson is a moldable commodity and could benefit from a position coach's coaching approach.
233rd overall (Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy)
At this point in the draft, Dallas needs to round out its roster with athletes. As it turns out, the former Trojan returnee fits the bill. Vidal isn't the biggest player, but he pulls second and third gear out of the backfield. He has 4,700 yards from scrimmage and his 34 touchdowns, including 92 receptions, are not to be taken lightly. On third down, when the receiver is covered, the Cowboys are definitely the players who can beat coverage.
244th overall (Willie Drew, CB, Virginia State)
Regardless of the level, 11 interceptions in two seasons is interesting. So-called draft experts want to reduce Drew's apparent ball skills. With a bargain seventh-round pick, Dallas could bring in a playmaker who isn't afraid to make big plays. Also, with his great size and jumping ability, Drew has a very good chance of securing a backup job in camp. Looking at the Cowboys' depth chart in the secondary, they could use another playmaker. Drew should start in special for the time being.
