The 2024 NFL season holds immense promise for the Dallas Cowboys, but the front office must already be looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft. This mock draft considers potential needs and scenarios for the Cowboys in 2025, projecting a team aiming for sustained success. This analysis assumes a successful 2024 season, leaving the Cowboys picking toward the latter half of the first round. However, unforeseen circumstances could always change this projection.
Round 1: Fortifying the Offensive Line
Pick #25: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
While the Cowboys' offensive line is currently strong, continuity is key. Tyron Smith's future remains uncertain, and proactively adding a top-tier offensive tackle like Peter Skoronski is a wise investment. Skoronski possesses exceptional technique, intelligence, and the versatility to play both tackle and guard. His addition ensures depth and future stability for a unit crucial to Dak Prescott's success and the team's overall offensive effectiveness. The Cowboys' dedication to protecting their franchise quarterback must be a priority in every draft.
Round 2: Adding Defensive Depth
Pick #58: Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
The linebacker corps will require attention in the coming years. Adding a player like Daiyan Henley, a versatile and instinctive linebacker, would significantly strengthen the defensive unit. Henley displays impressive speed and tackling ability, traits crucial for stopping the run and contributing in pass coverage. His addition provides competition and strengthens the depth needed for a consistently performing defense.
Round 3: Targeting a Playmaking Wide Receiver
Pick #91: Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
Assuming the Cowboys maintain their offensive success and don't make a significant move at receiver in free agency, focusing on adding another playmaker here makes sense. A player like Xavier Worthy, who possesses impressive speed and elusiveness, could provide a deep threat and another reliable target for Prescott. Worthy's potential to become a consistent big-play receiver aligns perfectly with the Cowboys' offensive philosophy.
Round 4: Bolstering the Defensive Backfield
Pick #127: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
The Cowboys consistently focus on strengthening their secondary, which is one of the team's most critical needs. A player like Devon Witherspoon brings a combination of physicality and ball skills. Witherspoon is capable of providing significant defensive support and improving the overall secondary depth. Investing in the secondary will ensure the team's long-term defensive prowess.
Late-Round Selections: Focusing on Special Teams and Future Potential
The remaining draft picks should focus on adding depth and players with high upside who can contribute immediately on special teams while developing their skills. This strategy includes targeting players who excel in various roles, providing added depth across positions and bolstering the team's special teams play. These late-round picks could potentially be used to select a developmental defensive end, a versatile offensive lineman, or a player who excels in special teams.
Conclusion: A Draft Focused on Sustainability
This 2025 Dallas Cowboys mock draft prioritizes building a strong and sustainable team. The focus remains on solidifying the offensive line, improving the linebacker corps, adding a playmaking receiver, and fortifying the secondary. The Cowboys have demonstrated a tendency to draft for need and potential, and this mock draft reflects that approach. The ultimate success of this draft will depend on player development and continued strong coaching, but it aims to provide the Cowboys with the talent they need to maintain their competitiveness for years to come. Remember that this is just a projection; the actual draft will inevitably differ based on team performance, player availability, and unforeseen circumstances.
