As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to make key decisions that could define the future of their franchise. Coming off a successful season and with a roster full of both young talent and experienced veterans, the Cowboys are in a strong position to add depth and strength to their roster. However, there are several areas where the Cowboys will be looking to address weaknesses and secure key contributors to elevate their championship aspirations.
Given the current makeup of the team and the potential for growth in several positions, three areas stand out as the Cowboys’ most pressing draft needs: wide receiver, offensive line, and defensive back. Each of these positions is critical for the Cowboys to remain competitive in a highly challenging NFC and continue their quest for a Super Bowl title. Let’s take a deep dive into why these areas are vital to the Cowboys’ success and how they can approach addressing them in the upcoming draft.
1. Wide Receiver: Bolstering the Passing Game
The Dallas Cowboys boast a star wide receiver in CeeDee Lamb, who has developed into one of the league’s top pass-catchers. Lamb’s route-running, ability to make plays after the catch, and overall skill set make him Dak Prescott’s primary target. However, while Lamb is undeniably the focal point of the Cowboys’ passing attack, there are significant concerns about the depth at wide receiver.
The Need: While Lamb is the No. 1 option in the receiving corps, the Cowboys have lacked a consistent second target who can stretch the field and provide Dak Prescott with another legitimate weapon. Michael Gallup has shown flashes of his potential, but injuries and inconsistencies have hindered his ability to become a reliable No. 2 receiver. Brandin Cooks, who was brought in to add speed and big-play ability, also had an inconsistent season. Outside of Lamb, Gallup, and Cooks, the Cowboys do not have a reliable depth chart behind them.
This is where the draft becomes crucial. The 2025 NFL Draft class offers a wealth of talent at the wide receiver position, and the Cowboys should target a player who can complement Lamb and add another dimension to their passing attack. Whether it’s a physical receiver who can make contested catches or a burner who can take the top off the defense, the Cowboys will need to add talent to their receiving corps to keep pace with the league’s best offenses.
Potential Draft Targets:
- Jaden Rashada (Florida) – Rashada is a dynamic wide receiver with exceptional speed and the ability to take over games. His deep-threat ability would immediately enhance the Cowboys’ passing game and provide Prescott with another vertical weapon. If Rashada falls into the second or third round, the Cowboys could land an explosive playmaker.
- Rome Odunze (Washington) – A taller, physical receiver, Odunze has the ability to win contested catches and could be a major red-zone target for the Cowboys. His size and catching radius would give Prescott a much-needed weapon in critical situations.
- Xavier Worthy (Texas) – Worthy is a fast and explosive receiver with elite speed. His ability to stretch the field would help open up opportunities for Lamb and take pressure off Gallup and Cooks. Worthy could be a game-changer for the Cowboys if they choose to target him in the later rounds.
Adding depth at the wide receiver position will be critical to Dallas’ success, especially as teams continue to develop more potent passing attacks. A new addition could provide Dak Prescott with the weapons necessary to elevate the Cowboys’ offense to new heights.
2. Offensive Line: Protecting Dak Prescott and Establishing the Run Game
The Cowboys have long prided themselves on having one of the NFL’s best offensive lines, and while that reputation still holds in many respects, there are areas that need improvement, particularly on the left side. Tyron Smith, the stalwart left tackle, has been a future Hall of Famer but has dealt with injuries in recent seasons, and his ability to stay on the field has become a concern. Meanwhile, other pieces of the offensive line, while still solid, are getting older and could soon need replacements or upgrades.
The Need: The Cowboys’ offensive line has long been a key asset to their success, particularly in the running game. However, injuries and age have started to take a toll on the unit, especially with Smith, one of the league’s best left tackles in his prime, nearing the twilight of his career. The need for fresh talent on the offensive line is critical. Whether the Cowboys target a potential replacement for Smith at left tackle or work on fortifying other spots like guard and center, addressing this need will help keep Dak Prescott upright and create more lanes for the running game.
The Cowboys also need to establish more consistency in their blocking, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations. While the offensive line has been solid, addressing depth and securing potential future starters should be a priority in the draft.
Potential Draft Targets:
- Dante Moore (Alabama) – Moore is considered one of the best tackles in the 2025 class. His combination of size, strength, and technique would make him an ideal candidate to replace Smith on the left side or provide immediate depth. If the Cowboys were to add Moore, they could solidify their offensive line for the next decade.
- Bryson Foster (Notre Dame) – A versatile offensive lineman who can play both guard and tackle, Foster is an intelligent and highly physical player. His adaptability would give the Cowboys options on the offensive line and allow them to move him around depending on their needs. He is a player who could contribute immediately and provide long-term depth.
- Javon Smith (Oklahoma) – Smith is another highly regarded tackle prospect with elite strength and athleticism. While he may need some time to develop, he has the potential to be a dominant presence on the offensive line for years to come.
With the Cowboys aiming to protect Dak Prescott and enhance the running game, the addition of a high-caliber offensive lineman would provide both short-term stability and long-term growth for the team.
3. Defensive Back: Strengthening the Secondary for Long-Term Success
The Cowboys’ defense has been one of the team’s strongest assets, thanks in large part to the dynamic play of linebacker Micah Parsons and a solid defensive line. However, the secondary remains an area that could use additional talent, especially at cornerback and safety. While Trevon Diggs has established himself as a premier cornerback, the Cowboys have been inconsistent in the back end of their defense. DaRon Bland has shown promise, but more depth is needed in both cornerback and safety positions.
The Need: The Cowboys’ secondary needs an upgrade in terms of depth and long-term solutions. While Diggs has emerged as one of the best ball-hawking cornerbacks in the league, the team’s other defensive backs have been inconsistent, particularly when faced with high-caliber receivers. Furthermore, safety remains an area of uncertainty, as neither Malik Hooker nor Jerron Kearse has cemented themselves as elite players at the position. With passing offenses in the NFC only becoming more potent, the Cowboys will need to add more depth and talent to their secondary.
To compete with top-tier offenses and wide receivers, the Cowboys need players who can lock down receivers and provide solid coverage. This may require adding a cornerback with elite coverage skills or a safety who can both cover and act as a playmaker in the box.
Potential Draft Targets:
- Javon Marshall (Georgia) – Marshall is a big, physical cornerback who excels in both man-to-man and zone coverage. His ability to shut down No. 2 wide receivers would immediately upgrade the Cowboys’ secondary and give them a second elite corner alongside Diggs.
- Chris Brown (Michigan) – Brown is a fast, intelligent safety who has great ball skills and the ability to cover both the deep and intermediate zones. His presence would give the Cowboys added versatility in their secondary, particularly against fast-paced passing attacks.
- Jalen Thompson (Alabama) – Thompson is a hard-hitting safety who excels in both coverage and run support. His ability to play both in the deep field and come up to the line of scrimmage would give the Cowboys a versatile player who could help improve both the pass defense and run defense.
Adding depth to the secondary will be essential for the Cowboys to remain a top-tier defense and to keep pace with the increasingly pass-heavy offenses in the NFC. By addressing these needs, the Cowboys can continue to build one of the league’s most formidable defenses.
The Cowboys’ Key Draft Needs in 2025
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, addressing needs at wide receiver, offensive line, and defensive back will be key to their championship aspirations. With Dak Prescott needing more weapons on offense and the team needing to bolster their blocking unit and secondary, the Cowboys have the opportunity to add impactful players who can contribute immediately and help them compete for a Super Bowl.
By adding depth to these critical positions, the Cowboys can continue their momentum and ensure that they remain one of the most competitive teams in the NFL. Whether they target a wide receiver who can complement CeeDee Lamb, an offensive lineman who can protect Prescott for years to come, or a defensive back who can help shut down elite offenses, the draft represents a pivotal moment for the Cowboys to secure their future success.
With the right additions, the Dallas Cowboys can position themselves to make a deep playoff run and finally bring home the coveted Super Bowl trophy that has eluded them for decades.