The Dallas Cowboys are approaching the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear focus: bolstering their roster by prioritizing running backs and strengthening both the offensive and defensive lines. After a challenging 2024 season, marked by a 7-10 finish and significant injuries, the organization recognizes the need to reinforce these critical areas to regain their competitive edge.
Assessing the 2024 Season and Identifying Needs
The 2024 season was marred by injuries, most notably to quarterback Dak Prescott, who suffered a torn hamstring, limiting him to just eight games. Prescott has expressed optimism about his recovery and the team’s future under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, emphasizing a return to an “old-school approach” with a focus on play-action passing.
The Cowboys’ offense struggled with consistency, particularly in the running game. The departure of Tony Pollard and the decline in Ezekiel Elliott’s performance left a void in the backfield. Rico Dowdle stepped up, achieving a 1,000-yard season, but he is now entering free agency, leaving uncertainty at the running back position.
Defensively, the team faced challenges in the trenches. The interior defensive line struggled against the run, highlighting the need for a dominant presence to anchor the defense. Additionally, the offensive line dealt with injuries and inconsistency, underscoring the necessity for reinforcements to protect Prescott and establish a more effective running game.
Mock Draft 1.0: Prioritizing Running Backs and the Trenches
In this mock draft, the Cowboys aim to address their most pressing needs by selecting top talent at running back and fortifying both lines.
Round 1 (Pick 13): Ashton Jeanty, Running Back, Boise State
Ashton Jeanty stands out as the premier running back in the 2025 draft class. His exceptional vision, agility, and ability to gain yards after contact make him an ideal fit for the Cowboys’ offense. Jeanty’s performance at Boise State showcased his versatility as both a runner and receiver, traits that would add a dynamic element to Dallas’s backfield.
Round 2 (Pick 44): Kenneth Grant, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
Addressing the defensive line, Kenneth Grant from Michigan offers a formidable presence in the interior. Known for his run-stopping abilities, Grant would provide the Cowboys with the strength and technique needed to disrupt opposing offenses and bolster their run defense.
Round 3 (Pick 75): Garrett Nussmeier, Quarterback, LSU
While not an immediate need, selecting Garrett Nussmeier provides depth at the quarterback position. Nussmeier’s strong arm and pocket presence make him a valuable backup with the potential to develop under Prescott’s mentorship.
Round 5 (Pick 150): Howard Cross III, Defensive Lineman, Notre Dame
Adding depth to the defensive line, Howard Cross III brings versatility and athleticism. His ability to play multiple positions along the line would offer the Cowboys flexibility in their defensive schemes.
Round 5 (Pick 169): Antwane Wells Jr., Wide Receiver, Mississippi
To complement CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys select Antwane Wells Jr., a physical wideout known for his strong hands and route-running skills. Wells would provide Prescott with another reliable target in the passing game.
Round 5 (Pick 170): Jonah Monheim, Offensive Lineman, USC
Strengthening the offensive line, Jonah Monheim from USC offers solid pass protection and run-blocking abilities. His addition would provide depth and potential future starting talent.
Round 5 (Pick 171): Domani Jackson, Cornerback, Alabama
Enhancing the secondary, Domani Jackson brings speed and coverage skills. His experience against top-tier competition in the SEC would be valuable in the Cowboys’ defensive backfield.
Round 6 (Pick 190): Jake Briningstool, Tight End, Clemson
Adding depth to the tight end position, Jake Briningstool is a reliable pass-catcher with the ability to contribute in the red zone. His presence would complement the existing tight end group.
Round 6 (Pick 209): Jason Marshall Jr., Cornerback, Florida
Further bolstering the secondary, Jason Marshall Jr. offers size and physicality at the cornerback position. His aggressive play style would add depth to the defensive back rotation.
Strategic Considerations
The selection of Ashton Jeanty in the first round addresses the immediate need for a dynamic running back capable of revitalizing the Cowboys’ ground game. His dual-threat capabilities as a runner and receiver align with Coach Schottenheimer’s offensive vision, providing Prescott with a versatile weapon.
Investing in the trenches with picks like Kenneth Grant and Jonah Monheim underscores the organization’s commitment to controlling the line of scrimmage. A fortified defensive line would enhance the team’s ability to stop the run and pressure opposing quarterbacks, while improvements on the offensive line would offer better protection for Prescott and create running lanes for Jeanty.
The mid to late-round selections focus on adding depth and potential future starters across various positions, including wide receiver, defensive back, and tight end. This approach ensures that the Cowboys have a well-rounded roster capable of addressing both immediate needs and future contingencies.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Draft presents a pivotal opportunity for the Dallas Cowboys to address critical areas of need and strengthen
their roster for a potential playoff push. By prioritizing running backs and fortifying both the offensive and defensive trenches, the Cowboys can establish a stronger foundation for success.
Final Thoughts on the Cowboys’ Draft Strategy
The Cowboys’ draft strategy in this mock emphasizes balance and long-term sustainability, ensuring the team is not just patching holes for the short term but building a roster capable of competing for years to come.
Here’s why this approach makes the most sense:
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Establishing a Dominant Run Game
- With Ashton Jeanty in the backfield, the Cowboys gain a legitimate three-down back who can keep defenses honest.
- His ability to be a playmaker out of the backfield aligns well with Brian Schottenheimer’s emphasis on play-action passing, making the offense more dynamic.
- Given the recent struggles of the Cowboys’ run game, prioritizing an elite running back should be a top concern.
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Strengthening the Trenches for Control and Protection
- The offensive line was once a staple of the Cowboys’ identity, but aging veterans and injuries have led to inconsistent play. Adding Jonah Monheim provides much-needed depth and potential starting talent.
- On the defensive line, Kenneth Grant brings size and power to the middle, which will help shore up the Cowboys’ run defense, a known weakness in 2024.
- Investing in the trenches means winning the battle in the trenches—something that is crucial for sustained success in the NFC East, where teams like the Eagles and 49ers dominate up front.
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Ensuring Depth and Future-Proofing Key Positions
- The selections of Garrett Nussmeier (QB), Domani Jackson (CB), and Jason Marshall Jr. (CB) give Dallas insurance at premium positions while allowing these players to develop without immediate pressure.
- Antwane Wells Jr. adds another playmaker at wide receiver, giving Prescott another weapon to complement CeeDee Lamb and help open up the offense.
- Jake Briningstool at tight end brings another red-zone target, ensuring the Cowboys maintain versatility in their passing attack.
The Bigger Picture: Competing for a Championship
This draft class doesn’t just address immediate needs—it lays the foundation for the Cowboys to compete for a Super Bowl in the next few years.
- A stronger offensive line and elite running back will help Prescott operate more efficiently and reduce turnovers.
- A reinforced defensive front will improve run defense, forcing opponents into third-and-long situations.
- Additional depth in key positions (CB, WR, and QB) ensures the Cowboys can withstand injuries and sustain success.
By prioritizing running backs and the trenches first, the Dallas Cowboys can reclaim their identity as a physically dominant team—one that wins at the line of scrimmage, controls the clock, and dictates the pace of games.