NFL Combine Standout OT Projected to Cowboys in Latest 2025 Mock Draft
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a pivotal point in their roster construction. With an eye on both short-term success and long-term sustainability, the Cowboys’ front office is gearing up to make moves that will impact the franchise for years to come. One position that has been a focal point for the Cowboys in recent seasons is the offensive line, and the latest mock drafts suggest that the team may prioritize this unit once again in the 2025 NFL Draft.
During the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, several prospects emerged as top candidates to be taken in the first round, and one particular offensive tackle has been linked to the Cowboys in various mock drafts. This article takes a deep dive into this standout offensive tackle, analyzing his performance at the Combine, his strengths and weaknesses, and why he might be the perfect fit for the Cowboys.
The Dallas Cowboys’ Need for an Offensive Tackle
The Cowboys’ offensive line has been a hallmark of the team’s success over the years. Since the early 2000s, the franchise has invested heavily in building one of the league’s most formidable units up front. However, as with any roster, time takes its toll, and the Cowboys’ offensive line is no exception. In recent seasons, injuries and aging have started to affect the group’s effectiveness, particularly on the right side.
With Tyron Smith, the long-time anchor of the left tackle position, entering the twilight of his career and dealing with injuries, there is a growing sense that the Cowboys will need to find his eventual replacement. Additionally, the right tackle position has been inconsistent, and while Terence Steele has shown promise, he has also been up and down, leaving questions about his long-term viability.
In such a situation, selecting a top-tier offensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft would make perfect sense for the Cowboys. Not only would it provide the team with a long-term solution at a critical position, but it would also protect the investment they have in Dak Prescott, ensuring that their quarterback remains well-protected for the foreseeable future.
The Standout OT at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine
At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, one offensive tackle stood head and shoulders above the rest in terms of both physical attributes and athletic testing. This player is none other than Keegan Wylie, a towering 6’7”, 320-pound tackle out of Michigan State University.
Wylie’s Combine performance was nothing short of spectacular. He ran the 40-yard dash in an impressive 4.89 seconds, an excellent time for a player of his size. His 1.68-second 10-yard split showcased his quickness off the line, an important trait for an offensive lineman tasked with protecting the blindside of a franchise quarterback. In addition to his speed, Wylie posted a 31-inch vertical leap, showing his explosiveness and athleticism.
Perhaps even more impressive than his raw numbers was the way Wylie looked during on-field drills. His technique, combined with his size and power, allowed him to dominate in blocking drills, where he showcased his ability to keep defenders at bay and drive them off the ball. Wylie’s performance left scouts, coaches, and executives impressed, and many considered him the best offensive tackle at the Combine.
Wylie also demonstrated strong leadership qualities, with multiple reports indicating that he was highly vocal during interviews and demonstrated a deep understanding of offensive line play. This mental acuity, combined with his physical traits, makes him a prime candidate for a first-round pick, and it’s easy to see why the Cowboys are linked to him in the latest 2025 mock drafts.
Why Keegan Wylie Fits the Dallas Cowboys
When analyzing a player’s fit with a particular NFL team, it’s essential to consider both his on-field traits and how they align with the team’s needs and system. In Wylie’s case, the Cowboys would benefit greatly from his skill set.
1. Physical Attributes
First and foremost, Wylie’s size is a perfect match for the Cowboys. As mentioned, he stands at 6’7” and weighs 320 pounds. This massive frame is ideal for protecting Dak Prescott’s blindside and controlling the line of scrimmage in both the running and passing games. In today’s NFL, where pass rushers are getting faster and stronger, having a massive, athletic tackle like Wylie is invaluable.
The Cowboys have long prioritized size and power on their offensive line, and Wylie fits that mold perfectly. His length allows him to keep defenders at a distance, while his strength enables him to create lanes in the running game. Whether he plays left or right tackle, Wylie’s physicality would help solidify one of the most important positions on the field for Dallas.
2. Athleticism
Wylie’s athleticism was on full display during the Combine, and this is an essential quality for the Cowboys. Offensive tackles are often required to get out in space to block on screen plays, sweep runs, and zone runs, and Wylie’s mobility is a big asset in those situations. His 40-yard dash time and vertical jump suggest that he’s not just a hulking figure but an agile athlete who can get to the second level and block linebackers effectively.
The Cowboys’ offensive scheme, led by offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, is built around a balanced attack that incorporates a heavy dose of play-action passing and zone running. Wylie’s ability to move and adjust in space would be critical in executing these plays, especially on outside runs or bootlegs.
3. Pass Protection
In the NFL, protecting the quarterback is the most important job of an offensive tackle, and Wylie’s pass protection ability would be an immediate asset for the Cowboys. His lateral quickness, coupled with his impressive arm length and hand placement, allows him to fend off edge rushers effectively. He’s also adept at reading defensive linemen’s moves and adjusting his technique to neutralize their pass rush.
Dak Prescott is a franchise quarterback, and the Cowboys have made significant investments to build around him. Wylie’s ability to keep Prescott clean in the pocket would allow the offense to thrive and maximize the passing game, particularly when paired with a potent receiving corps and a strong running back in Tony Pollard.
4. Versatility
Another reason why Wylie is a great fit for the Cowboys is his versatility. While he has the size and skill set to excel at left tackle, many scouts believe he could play either tackle position in the NFL. This versatility would give the Cowboys flexibility in terms of lineups, particularly if they decide to move Terence Steele to guard or if they need a backup option in case of injury.
Wylie’s ability to transition smoothly between different positions would allow the Cowboys to shift their offensive line according to the specific needs of the game or the season. This type of flexibility is essential for a team that values depth and adaptability along the line.
The Cowboys’ Potential Offensive Line in 2025
With Wylie in the fold, the Cowboys’ offensive line could look like a strong unit heading into the 2025 season. A potential starting lineup could consist of:
- Left Tackle: Tyron Smith (until his eventual retirement, with Wylie as a potential replacement)
- Left Guard: Tyler Smith
- Center: Tyler Biadasz
- Right Guard: Zack Martin
- Right Tackle: Keegan Wylie
This lineup would provide the Cowboys with a formidable front five. With Zack Martin holding down the right guard position and Tyler Smith emerging as a potential star on the left side, Wylie would add to an already solid line. His ability to protect Prescott and open up lanes for Pollard would make the Cowboys’ offense even more potent.
Other Considerations for the Cowboys
While Wylie would fill a crucial need on the Cowboys’ offensive line, there are other factors that the team must consider in their 2025 draft strategy. The Cowboys could look to address other positions, such as wide receiver, linebacker, or cornerback, but securing a high-level tackle would solidify their offensive front and set them up for long-term success.
The Cowboys could also choose to trade up or down in the draft depending on their evaluation of other top prospects. If Wylie is still available at their pick, however, it’s hard to imagine them passing on the opportunity to grab a franchise-caliber tackle.