The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2024 offseason with familiar championship aspirations. Dak Prescott is healthy and the skill positions are solid, but the offensive line, once a strength, is in flux. With the 24th overall pick in the NFL Draft, the Cowboys' front office is under pressure to get noticed. Will they prioritize strengthening the trenches and protecting their franchise quarterback? Or could he be tempted by a game-changing weapon, either on offense or defense, that could dig into the Dallas Cowboys' first-round draft big board and solidify their Super Bowl hopes? Join us as we analyze the most interesting up-and-comers.
Dallas Cowboys NFL Draft Needs
The Dallas Cowboys have several pressing needs to address heading into the 2024 NFL season, with offensive line being the most prominent. Here's a breakdown of their key priorities and the positions they might add in the first round.
offensive line: This is the Cowboys' biggest concern. Losing Tyron Smith in free agency left a huge hole on the offensive line to fill. They can move Tyler Smith to his natural LT position and chase a guard, or they can keep him there and take the best bookend tackle available.
They also need to fill the spot vacated by center Tyler Biadasz. Either way, protecting Dak Prescott and creating running lanes will be important to the offense's success. They'll likely target an offensive lineman in the early rounds.
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linebacker: With the retirement of Leighton Vander Esch, the Cowboys lack depth at linebacker. It would be great to draft a young, athletic linebacker to shore up the defense in addition to the already solid second-level defenders.
wide receiver: CeeDee Lamb is a stallion, but the Cowboys are still looking for Batman's Robin. This draft was loaded with high-end receiving talent, and Jerry Jones never shied away from taking splash picks. No one would be surprised if the Cowboys look to add another star player on the outside.
Running Back (Deep/Long Term Solution): The Cowboys face a dilemma at running back with Tony Pollard departing for Tennessee in free agency. They need a reliable back to complement their offense, whether it's a bell cow or a deeper position. However, depending on the value available, this could be addressed anywhere from mid-round to late round.
Defensive tackle (depth): While not the most pressing need, adding depth at defensive tackle provides flexibility and keeps the defensive line fresh. This may be addressed in later rounds.
Dallas Cowboys 3rd round mock draft
dallas cowboys big board
Below is a brief list of players the Cowboys could select with the 24th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Tyler Guyton – Oklahoma State Tackle
The towering offensive tackle from Oklahoma is a high prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. At 6’7” and 325 pounds, he boasts impressive size and length and has unstoppable power on the edge. Guyton excels in the run game, using his power and explosiveness to overwhelm defenders and open up running lanes. He displays a quick first step and impressive reach, effectively breaking away from blockers and shutting down defenders in zone blocking schemes.
His pass protection skills are still developing, but his athleticism allows him to bounce back from mistakes and effectively mirror edge rushers. Guyton's natural talent, combined with his leadership ability and dedication to improvement, makes him a potential starter who can anchor an offensive line and protect a franchise quarterback for years to come.
Graham Burton – Duke University Center/Guard
The former three-star rookie defied expectations to be the top offensive line prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. Having played all three years of his college career at Duke University, Burton's versatility is a huge asset. He started at center as a true freshman and transitioned smoothly to left tackle, showing adaptability and intelligence. At 6'5″ tall and 310 pounds, Barton has a well-proportioned frame and incredible athleticism.
He explodes off the snap, dominates run plays, and generates power to anchor against bull rushes. His technique and awareness are constantly improving, allowing him to effectively mirror pass rushers and protect the quarterback's blindside. Barton's relentless athleticism and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable asset to NFL teams looking for reliable offensive linemen.
Dallas Cowboys 1st Round Mock Draft
Jackson Powers Johnson Center, Oregon
The anchor of the Oregon Ducks' offensive line is a rising star in the 2024 NFL Draft. Nicknamed “JPJ,” the versatile lineman played guard and tackle early in his career before settling into the center position. At 6’4” and 310 pounds, Powers-Johnson boasts a strong, well-utilized frame that allows him to overwhelm defenders in the run game.
His explosive first step and relentless momentum pave the way for him to become a running back, and his technique and awareness make him a reliable pass protector. His experience playing behind JPJ's offensive line shows his intelligence and adaptability. He finished his junior year with excellent PFF grades and a unanimous All-American selection, cementing himself as a potential plug-and-play starter who can anchor an NFL offensive line for years to come.
Xavier Worthy – Texas WR
He is a burner who terrorizes defenses with his incredible speed. Listed at 6-foot-1 and 165 pounds, he may not have the ideal size, but his 4.21 40-yard dash, the fastest ever at the NFL Combine, speaks for itself. Worthy uses his speed to blow past defenders and create separation deep in the field. But he's more than just a one-trick pony.
Worthy flashes incredible leaping ability and reliable hands, making him a threat in the red zone. His route running still has room for improvement, but his explosiveness after the catch and ability to stretch the field make him a game changer. He's a high-risk, high-return receiver who could blow over the top of the defense and help get CeeDee Lamb open while keeping safeties out of the box.
Dallas Cowboys 2024 NFL Draft Picks Complete List
