To give you time to re-evaluate and reflect on the eight new players the Dallas Cowboys added in the 2024 NFL Draft, here's a small list of what roles each of this year's draft picks could play as a rookie this season. I tried to summarize.
1.29 – LT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma State
The Cowboys traded five spots with the Detroit Lions and also acquired an additional third-round pick (73rd overall). In doing so, they acquired an immediate replacement for Tyron Smith and a player who should hopefully be their blindside protector for the next decade. He may have some growing pains early on as he continues to develop, but all the tools are there for many years at LT.
2.56 – DE Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan
The Cowboys surprisingly passed on RB Trey Benson here, opting instead to give Mike Zimmer a little more help on the defensive side of the ball. Marshawn Kneeland is a hard-nosed, greedy defensive end who brings instant toughness to Dallas' defensive line. He won't be a starter in place of DeMarcus Lawrence or Micah Parsons, but he should get significant playing time as a rotation player despite being a rookie.
3.73 – Kansas State, OC Cooper Beebe
Cooper Beebe may have been the best player in the Cowboys' entire 2024 draft class. His toughness and aggressive mentality should immediately benefit Dallas' offensive line from day one. He may not have officially started at OC during his time at Kansas State, but he'll likely step into the position early to replace Tyler Biadasz. Given that No. 70 is entering his contract year, he could be Zack Martin's successor in the future.
3.87 – LB Marist Liufau, Notre Dame
Like Marshawn Nyland, Marist Liufau is the type of player Mike Zimmer's defensive scheme needs. Many thought the Cowboys overdrafted here due to the “need” at the position and the fact that they didn't pick until the fifth round, No. 174 overall, but former Notre Dame LB will compete for the right to participate. When I was still a newbie.
5.174 – CB Kaylen Carson, Wake Forest
The Cowboys may have had to play through all four rounds and most of the fifth round before drafting Kaylen Carson, but it might have been worth it. The former Wake Forest cornerback has positional flexibility to play either on the outside or in the slot, which is invaluable given Trevon Diggs' return from a season-ending injury is an unknown. It may turn out that. He will likely start as their CB4 and be a core special teamer as well.
6.216 – WR Ryan Flournoy, Southeast Missouri State
Despite the depth at the position, Ryan Flournoy should be able to compete for the backup wide receiver role early as a rookie. He is an intriguing player with an impressive size and speed combo. A rising prospect from a small school, he will need to prove he can make the jump to the next level, but his ease of catching the ball with his hands and athleticism will earn him a roster spot, playing time and special offers. It gives the team a chance to compete. As a newbie.
7.233 – IOL Nathan Thomas, Lafayette, Louisiana
Nathan Thomas was a mid-round prospect but was traded to the Dallas Cowboys due to injury concerns. He played left tackle during his time at Louisiana-Lafayette, but was most active at inside guard for the Cowboys. If he can put everything together and overcome his injuries, he has the size and talent to develop into a starting pitcher. He has a real chance to become a late-round hidden gem for the Cowboys. He will probably learn as a reserve during his rookie year, but
7.244 – DT Justin Rodgers, Auburn
The Cowboys acquired the final pick of the 2024 NFL Draft, helping fill the void left by the free agency departures of Jonathan Hankins and Neville Gallimore. There's no guarantee that Justin Rodgers will make the final 53-man roster, but he has a good chance considering the lack of depth at the position. He is a traditional big-bodied run stopper and is expected to compete for a rotational role at nose tackle as a rookie in Dallas.
