The 2025 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start speculating about who the Dallas Cowboys might target. With a young and talented roster, the Cowboys are poised to make a run at a Super Bowl in the coming years. However, they will need to add some key pieces to their team in order to do so.
One of the biggest needs for the Cowboys is at the wide receiver position. Amari Cooper is a free agent after the 2022 season, and it’s unclear whether or not the Cowboys will be able to re-sign him. If Cooper leaves, the Cowboys will need to find a new number one wide receiver. One potential target is Jalin Hyatt from Tennessee. Hyatt is a 6’3″, 205-pound wide receiver who had a breakout season in 2022, catching 67 passes for 1,267 yards and 15 touchdowns. He is a big, physical receiver who can make contested catches and has the speed to stretch the field. Hyatt would be a great addition to the Cowboys’ offense and would give them a much-needed playmaker at the wide receiver position.
Another need for the Cowboys is at the linebacker position. Leighton Vander Esch is entering the final year of his contract, and it’s unclear whether or not the Cowboys will re-sign him. If Vander Esch leaves, the Cowboys will need to find a new starting middle linebacker. One potential target is Henry To’oTo’o from Alabama. To’oTo’o is a 6’2″, 225-pound linebacker who is considered to be one of the best linebackers in college football. He is a tackling machine who can also rush the passer. To’oTo’o would be a great addition to the Cowboys’ defense and would give them a much-needed playmaker at the linebacker position.
Quarterback Conundrum
The most pressing issue facing the Dallas Cowboys in this upcoming draft is their quarterback situation. With Dak Prescott entering the final year of his contract, the team must decide whether to extend him, let him walk, or draft his replacement. Prescott has been a solid performer for the Cowboys, but his injury history and salary demands have raised questions about his long-term viability. The Cowboys have several options in the draft, including:
**Potential Quarterback Targets**
| Player | College | Projected Round |
|---|---|---|
| Caleb Williams | USC | 1st |
| Drake Maye | North Carolina | 1st |
| Tyler Van Dyke | Miami (FL) | 2nd |
| Sam Hartman | Wake Forest | 3rd |
Caleb Williams and Drake Maye are considered the top prospects in the draft, but their availability will depend on where their teams finish in the standings. Tyler Van Dyke and Sam Hartman are solid prospects who could be available in later rounds. Ultimately, the Cowboys’ decision will be based on a combination of Prescott’s contract negotiations, the draft prospects available, and their long-term vision for the franchise.
Star Defensive Edge
The Dallas Cowboys have a need for a star defensive edge rusher. They have not had a player with double-digit sacks since DeMarcus Ware in 2013. In this mock draft, the Cowboys select Will Anderson Jr. from Alabama with the 12th overall pick. Anderson is a 6’4″, 243-pound edge rusher who had 17.5 sacks and 31.5 tackles for loss in 2022. He is a dynamic pass rusher who can get to the quarterback in a variety of ways. He has a great first step and can use his speed and power to beat offensive tackles. He also has a good spin move and can create pressure on the quarterback from multiple angles. Anderson is a complete edge rusher who can help the Cowboys improve their pass rush and overall defense.
Anderson’s Stats
| Year | Sacks | Tackles for Loss |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 17.5 | 31.5 |
| 2021 | 10.5 | 17.5 |
| 2020 | 5.5 | 10.0 |
Bulk Up the O-Line
The Cowboys’ offensive line has been a major weakness in recent years, and it’s a major reason why the team has struggled to consistently compete. In order to fix this, the Cowboys need to add some serious talent to the trenches.
There are a few different ways the Cowboys could go about doing this. One option would be to sign a big-name free agent, such as Terron Armstead or Laremy Tunsil. However, this would be a costly move, and it’s not clear if the Cowboys are willing to spend that much money on one player.
A more likely scenario is that the Cowboys will address their offensive line needs through the draft. There are a number of talented offensive linemen available in this year’s draft, and the Cowboys could land a quality player with their first-round pick.
Here are a few offensive linemen who the Cowboys could target in the first round:
| Name | Position | College |
|---|---|---|
| Evan Neal | OT | Alabama |
| Charles Cross | OT | Mississippi State |
| Ikem Ekwonu | OT | NC State |
Neal is a massive tackle who is known for his strength and athleticism. Cross is a more polished pass-protector, but he’s not as strong as Neal. Ekwonu is a versatile lineman who can play guard or tackle. He’s a good athlete with a nasty streak.
Any of these players would be a good addition to the Cowboys’ offensive line. They would provide the team with a much-needed boost in size and athleticism.
Speedy Wide Receiver
The Dallas Cowboys have a need for speed at the wide receiver position. They have a solid group of receivers, but they lack a true burner who can take the top off of defenses. In this mock draft, the Cowboys select a receiver who can do just that.
Pick 18: Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee
Hyatt is a 6-foot-3, 185-pound wide receiver who is known for his speed and big-play ability. He ran a 4.34 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, and he has a knack for getting open deep down the field. In 2022, Hyatt led the nation with 1,267 receiving yards and 15 receiving touchdowns. He also had 67 receptions and averaged 18.9 yards per catch. Hyatt is a bit of a raw prospect, but he has all the tools to be a star in the NFL. He is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and he would give the Cowboys a much-needed deep threat.
| Measurables | # |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ |
| Weight | 185 lbs |
| 40-yard dash | 4.34 seconds |
Hyatt is a bit of a risky pick at No. 18 overall, but he has the potential to be a game-changer for the Cowboys. He is the fastest receiver in this draft class, and he has the size and athleticism to be a star. If he can reach his full potential, Hyatt could be the deep threat that the Cowboys have been looking for.
Linebacker Depth
The Cowboys have two Pro-Bowl linebackers in Micah Parsons and Leighton Vander Esch, but they lack depth behind them. Parsons can play anywhere on the field, but the team needs to add some players who can specialize in coverage and run-stopping.
Some potential targets in the 2025 draft include:
| Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| Keion White | Outside Linebacker | Georgia Tech |
| Kane Patterson | Inside Linebacker | California |
| Kareem Anderson | Inside Linebacker | Ohio State |
Micah Parsons, the Defensive Swiss Army Knife
Micah Parsons is one of the most versatile defenders in the NFL. He can play all three linebacker positions and even line up on the defensive line. In 2022, he had 13 sacks, 96 tackles, and three forced fumbles. He is a one-man wrecking crew who can single-handedly disrupt an opposing offense.
Leighton Vander Esch, the Coverage Specialist
Leighton Vander Esch is a sideline-to-sideline linebacker who specializes in coverage. He has excellent instincts and awareness and is always around the ball. In 2022, he had 89 tackles, two interceptions, and five pass breakups. He is a key piece of the Cowboys’ defense and helps to keep opposing tight ends and running backs in check.
Safety Addition
The Cowboys have a solid safety duo in Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker, but they could use some depth behind them. They could address this need in the draft with a player like Antonio Johnson from Texas A&M.
Antonio Johnson
Johnson is a 6’3″, 200-pound safety who is a versatile player with a lot of upside. He can play in the box, as a deep safety, or even as a nickel cornerback. He is a good tackler and has excellent ball skills. In 2022, he had 4 interceptions and 11 pass breakups.
| Player | Pos | College |
|---|---|---|
| Antonio Johnson | S | Texas A&M |
Tight End Target
With Dalton Schultz set to become a free agent in 2025, the Cowboys will need to find a long-term solution at tight end. The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to offer a strong crop of tight ends, and here are a few names that the Cowboys could consider.
Arik Gilbert, LSU
Gilbert is a 6-foot-5, 250-pound tight end who is considered one of the best prospects at his position in the 2025 class. He has a rare combination of size, athleticism, and pass-catching ability. Gilbert is a mismatch for opposing linebackers and safeties, and he is also a dangerous red-zone threat.
Jaleel Skinner, Miami (FL)
Skinner is a 6-foot-5, 265-pound tight end who has been a standout for the Hurricanes. He is a physical blocker who can also make plays in the passing game. Skinner has good hands and is a reliable target for his quarterback. He is also a willing blocker, which would be a valuable asset for the Cowboys’ offense.
Oscar Delp, Georgia
Delp is a 6-foot-5, 250-pound tight end who is one of the most versatile players at his position in the 2025 class. He is a good blocker who can also line up as a wide receiver. Delp has good speed and athleticism, and he is a dangerous weapon in the open field. He would be a good addition to the Cowboys’ offense, as he would give them a player who can do a little bit of everything.
Luke Musgrave, Oregon
Musgrave is a 6-foot-6, 250-pound tight end who has been a key contributor for the Ducks. He is a good blocker who can also make plays in the passing game. Musgrave has good hands and is a reliable target for his quarterback. He is also a willing blocker, which would be a valuable asset for the Cowboys’ offense.
Jake Johnson, Oklahoma
Johnson is a 6-foot-5, 260-pound tight end who has been a standout for the Sooners. He is a physical blocker who can also make plays in the passing game. Johnson has good hands and is a reliable target for his quarterback. He is also a willing blocker, which would be a valuable asset for the Cowboys’ offense.
Tight End Comparison Chart
| Gilbert | Skinner | Delp | Musgrave | Johnson | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 6-foot-5 | 6-foot-5 | 6-foot-5 | 6-foot-6 | 6-foot-5 |
| Weight | 250 pounds | 265 pounds | 250 pounds | 250 pounds | 260 pounds |
| Blocking Ability | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Pass-Catching Ability | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Versatility | High | Medium | High | Medium | Medium |
Dynamic Running Back
The Dallas Cowboys have a long and storied history of producing some of the NFL’s most prolific running backs. From Emmitt Smith to Ezekiel Elliott, the Cowboys’ backfield has been a constant source of production and excitement for fans.
Bijan Robinson (Texas)
Bijan Robinson is a 5-star recruit from the University of Texas. He is one of the most dynamic running backs in the country, and he would be a perfect fit for the Cowboys’ offense. Robinson is a powerful runner with great speed and agility. He is also a capable receiver out of the backfield.
Rueben Owens (Texas A&M)
Rueben Owens is another 5-star recruit from the state of Texas. He is a big, physical running back with excellent vision and instincts. Owens is a tough runner who is not afraid to lower his shoulder and grind out yards.
Chris Tyree (Notre Dame)
Chris Tyree is a 4-star recruit from Notre Dame. He is a versatile running back who can line up in the backfield or at wide receiver. Tyree is a shifty runner with great speed and agility. He is also a dangerous return man.
| Player | School | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Bijan Robinson | Texas | Freshman |
| Rueben Owens | Texas A&M | Freshman |
| Chris Tyree | Notre Dame | Freshman |
Specialty Player
With the departure of several key players in recent years, the Dallas Cowboys are in need of some new talent. The 2025 NFL Draft is a great opportunity for the Cowboys to add some young talent to their roster and build for the future.
Quarterback
With Dak Prescott entering the final year of his contract, the Cowboys could look to add a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. C.J. Stroud from Ohio State is a potential candidate, as he is considered one of the best quarterbacks in the country.
Wide Receiver
The Cowboys could also use some help at wide receiver. Jordan Addison from USC is a potential candidate, as he is one of the most productive wide receivers in the country.
Tight End
The Cowboys could also use some help at tight end. Braylon James from Texas A&M is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best tight ends in the country.
Offensive Line
The Cowboys could also use some help on the offensive line. Nolan McConnell from Georgia is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best offensive linemen in the country.
Defensive Line
The Cowboys could also use some help on the defensive line. Shemar Stewart from Texas is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best defensive linemen in the country.
Linebacker
The Cowboys could also use some help at linebacker. Toriano Pride from Clemson is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best linebackers in the country.
Cornerback
The Cowboys could also use some help at cornerback. Davison Igbinosum from Mississippi is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best cornerbacks in the country.
Safety
The Cowboys could also use some help at safety. Dani Dennis-Sutton from Penn State is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best safeties in the country.
Special Teams
The Cowboys could also use some help on special teams. Blake Grupe from Michigan State is a potential candidate, as he is one of the best kickers in the country.
MOCK DRAFT
| Round | Pick | Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 9 | Marvin Jones Jr. | WR | Georgia |
| 2 | 41 | Henry To’oTo’o | LB | Tennessee |
| 3 | 73 | Cody Mauch | OT | North Dakota State |
| 4 | 105 | Adetomiwa Adebawore | DT | Northwestern |
| 5 | 137 | Jaleel Skinner | TE | Miami (FL) |
| 6 | 173 | Shemar Stewart | DE | Texas |
| 7 | 209 | Daniel Scott | CB | California |
Future-Proofing the Roster
10. Quarterback: C.J. Stroud, Ohio State
In a draft replete with quarterback talent, C.J. Stroud from Ohio State stands as the crown jewel. With his commanding presence, remarkable arm talent, and cerebral approach to the game, Stroud possesses all the traits necessary to become a franchise-changing signal-caller. His quick release, pinpoint accuracy, and ability to make pinpoint throws from various arm angles and platforms would provide the Cowboys with a much-needed upgrade at the most critical position.
Stroud’s 2022 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, as he led the Buckeyes to another College Football Playoff appearance. He showcased his exceptional decision-making, completing 66.3% of his passes for an astounding 3,688 yards, 41 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions. His 165.2 passer rating further solidifies his status as an elite-level prospect.
While there is no sure thing in the NFL draft, C.J. Stroud has all the ingredients to become a long-term franchise quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys. His arm strength, accuracy, mobility, and leadership qualities make him the perfect fit for Kellen Moore’s offense. If the Cowboys manage to secure his services in the 2025 NFL Draft, they will have addressed their most pressing need and set themselves up for future success.
| Player | Position | College | HT/WT |
|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Stroud | QB | Ohio State | 6’3″/215 lbs |
2025 Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft
Round 1, Pick 12: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
The Cowboys have a big need at quarterback with Dak Prescott approaching the end of his contract. Richardson is a 6’4", 244-pound quarterback with a cannon of an arm and impressive mobility. He has the potential to be a franchise-changing quarterback.
Round 1, Pick 26: Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas
The Cowboys offensive line is aging, and Banks is a young, talented tackle who can protect Prescott’s blindside. He is a powerful blocker with great athleticism.
Round 2, Pick 45: JQ Hardaway, S, Cincinnati
The Cowboys need to add some youth and athleticism to their secondary, and Hardaway is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong safety. He is a good tackler and has a nose for the ball.
Round 2, Pick 49: Blake Freeland, DT, BYU
The Cowboys need to add some depth to their defensive line, and Freeland is a big, strong defensive tackle who can eat up space and create pressure.
Round 3, Pick 79: Titus Leo, CB, Wagner
The Cowboys need some more talent at cornerback, and Leo is a long, athletic corner with good ball skills. He has the potential to develop into a starting cornerback in the NFL.
Round 3, Pick 93: Jaheim Oatis, DT, Alabama
Oatis is a massive defensive tackle who can collapse the pocket and disrupt the running game. He is a good athlete for his size and has the potential to be a disruptive force in the NFL.
Round 4, Pick 115: Will Mallory, TE, Miami (FL)
The Cowboys need a tight end who can be a receiving threat and a blocker, and Mallory fits the bill. He is a good pass-catcher with strong hands and is also a willing blocker.
Round 4, Pick 129: Tyler Booker, S, Alabama
Booker is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong safety. He is a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays.
Round 5, Pick 145: David Bailey, OT, Stanford
The Cowboys need to add some depth to their offensive line, and Bailey is a talented tackle with good size and athleticism. He is a good run blocker and has the potential to develop into a starting tackle in the NFL.
Round 5, Pick 161: Jaren Kanak, DE, Oklahoma
Kanak is a pass-rushing specialist who can provide the Cowboys with some much-needed depth at the position. He is a good athlete with a good first step and has the potential to develop into a solid pass rusher in the NFL.
Round 6, Pick 178: Bryce Anderson, LB, Texas A&M
Anderson is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside linebacker. He is a good tackler and has a nose for the ball.
People Also Ask About 2025 Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft
What are the Cowboys’ biggest needs in 2025?
The Cowboys’ biggest needs in 2025 are quarterback, offensive line, and cornerback.
Who are some of the best players available in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Some of the best players available in the 2025 NFL Draft include Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida; Kelvin Banks, OT, Texas; and JQ Hardaway, S, Cincinnati.
What is the Cowboys’ draft history?
The Cowboys have a long and storied draft history, having drafted some of the greatest players in NFL history. In recent years, the Cowboys have had some success in the draft, but they have also had some misses.
