NEWSLETTER
The Dallas Cowboys enter the 2024 offseason with the familiar feeling of championship aspirations. Dak Prescott is healthy, the skill positions are loaded, but the offensive line, once a strength, is in flux. With the 24th overall pick in the NFL Draft, the pressure is on for the Cowboys’ front office to make a splash. Will they prioritize shoring up the trenches and protecting their franchise quarterback? Or might they be tempted by a game-changing weapon on offense or defense? Join us as we delve into the Dallas Cowboys’ first-round draft big board, dissecting the most intriguing prospects who could solidify their Super Bowl hopes.
Dallas Cowboys NFL Draft Needs
The Dallas Cowboys have a few pressing needs to address ahead of the 2024 NFL season, with the offensive line being the most glaring issue among them. Here’s a breakdown of their key priorities and the possible positions they may look to add in the first round.
Offensive Line: This is the Cowboys’ biggest concern. Losing Tyron Smith in free agency leaves a massive hole to fill on the offensive line. They can move Tyler Smith to his natural position of LT and go after a guard or keep him there and take the best available bookend tackle.
They also need to fill the spot vacated by Tyler Biadasz at center. Either way, protecting Dak Prescott and creating running lanes is crucial for the offense’s success. They’ll likely target an offensive lineman in the early rounds.
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Linebacker: With Leighton Vander Esch retiring, the Cowboys lack depth at linebacker. Drafting a young, athletic linebacker to bolster the defense adding to their already stout second-level defenders would be great.
Wide Receiver: CeeDee Lamb is a stud but the Cowboys are still searching for the Robin to his Batman. This draft is filled with high-end receiving talent and Jerry Jones has never shied away from going with a splash pick. It wouldn’t surprise anyone if the Cowboys look to add another star on the outside.
Running Back (Depth/Long-term solution): The Cowboys face a dilemma at running back with Tony Pollard departing for Tennessee in free agency. They need a reliable back to complement their offense, whether it’s a bell-cow or more depth at the position. This could be addressed anywhere from the mid-rounds to the later rounds depending on the value available though.
Defensive Tackle (depth): While not the most pressing need, adding depth at defensive tackle provides flexibility and keeps the defensive line fresh. This could be addressed in the later rounds.
Dallas Cowboys 3-Round Mock Draft
Dallas Cowboys Big Board
Here is a quick list of players that the Cowboys may target with the 24th overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Tyler Guyton – Tackle, Oklahoma
The towering offensive tackle from Oklahoma is a rising prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. At 6’7″ and 325 lbs, he boasts impressive size and length, making him a force to be reckoned with on the edge. Guyton excels in the run game, using his power and explosiveness to dominate defenders and open up running lanes. He showcases a quick first step and impressive reach, effectively disengaging from blockers and sealing off defenders in zone-blocking schemes.
While his pass protection technique is still under development, his athleticism allows him to recover from mistakes and effectively mirror edge rushers. Guyton’s raw talent, combined with his coachability and dedication to improvement, makes him a potential starter who can anchor an offensive line and protect a franchise quarterback for years to come.
Graham Barton – Center/Guard, Duke
A former three-star recruit, has defied expectations to become a top offensive line prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. Playing all three of his college years at Duke, Barton’s versatility is a major asset. He started at center as a true freshman and transitioned smoothly to left tackle, showcasing his adaptability and intelligence. At 6’5″ and 310 lbs, Barton possesses a well-proportioned frame and surprising athleticism.
He explodes off the snap, generating power to dominate run plays and anchor against bull rushes. His technique and awareness are constantly improving, allowing him to effectively mirror pass rushers and protect the quarterback’s blindside. Barton’s relentless motor and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable asset for any NFL team seeking a reliable offensive lineman.
Dallas Cowboys 1st-Round Mock Draft
Jackson Powers-Johnson- Center, Oregon
The anchor of the Oregon Ducks offensive line is a rising star in the 2024 NFL Draft. Nicknamed “JPJ,” this versatile lineman played guard and tackle early in his career before solidifying the center position. At 6’4″ and 310 lbs, Powers-Johnson boasts a strong, well-leveraged frame that allows him to overpower defenders in the run game.
His explosive first step and relentless motor pave the way for running backs, while his technique and awareness make him a reliable pass protector. JPJ’s experience playing across the offensive line showcases his intelligence and adaptability. He finished his junior year with a stellar PFF grade and a unanimous All-American selection, solidifying him as a potential plug-and-play starter who can anchor an NFL offensive line for years to come.
Xavier Worthy – WR, Texas
He’s a burner with blazing speed who strikes fear into defenses. Listed at 6’1″ and 165 lbs, he might lack ideal size, but his 4.21 40-yard dash, the fastest ever recorded at the NFL Combine, speaks for itself. Worthy uses his speed to blow past defenders and create separation deep down the field. He isn’t just a one-trick pony though.
Worthy showcases surprising leaping ability and reliable hands, making him a threat in the red zone. While his route running can still be refined, his explosiveness after the catch and ability to stretch the field make him a game-changer. He’s a high-risk, high-reward receiver who could blow the top off defenses and help get CeeDee Lamb open while also keeping safeties out of the box.
