After a disappointing 2024 season with a 7-10 record, the Dallas Cowboys are at a crossroads. Under the direction of new head coach Brian Schottenheimer and a restructured free agency philosophy, the team has shown a slight openness to changing its traditionally conservative approach. Stephen Jones publicly acknowledged that the team needed to rethink its strategy and, while the moves were not groundbreaking, there was an effort to add experience at low cost.Dallas signed several veterans with league experience, including running backs, defenders and receivers, although many of these reinforcements were more aimed at filling gaps than raising the competitive level of the squad. Significant losses, such as Jourdan Lewis in the secondary or Rico Dowdle in the offensive backfield, left significant gaps that management has only been able to partially fill. That’s why the 2025 Draft will be key to closing the gap between a contender and a true contender.
Offensive needs: Complementary receiver and dynamism
One of the obvious priorities is to find a reliable receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb.Arizona star Tetairoa McMillan appears to be an ideal option if available at No. 12. His ability to win split balls and generate deep yards makes him an ideal target for Dak Prescott. While Lamb dominates from the slot, McMillan would allow him to operate more freely and with less double coverage.
If McMillan does not reach the Dallas pick, Matthew Golden could be a great alternative. Coming from Texas, Golden impressed both in the season and at the Combine, standing out for his speed and ability to respond at key moments. His “playmaker” profile fits Schottenheimer’s offense, which looks for explosive players capable of generating separation quickly. Both receivers have the potential to become that ally that has been so sought after for Lamb.
Vulnerable defense: Emergencies in the secondary and defensive line
On the defensive side, injuries and departures have particularly weakened the secondary. The prolonged absence of Trevon Diggs and the departure of Lewis open the door for players such as Michigan’s Will Johnson to become first-round targets. Johnson has proven to be a solid cornerback, with elite instincts and statistics to back up his impact in coverage. His addition could form a fearsome duo alongside DaRon Bland.
Another need that could be addressed is quarterback pressure. While Dante Fowler Jr. was retained and talent such as Payton Turner was acquired, the departures of figures such as DeMarcus Lawrence leave voids on the defensive front. Players such as Mykel Williams or Jalon Walker could offer the versatility that Dallas values so much in its hybrid defensive scheme. In fact, the possibility of moving up in the draft to secure one of these prospects is not out of the question.
With 10 selections available and the 12th overall pick in the first round, the Cowboys have an excellent opportunity to really turn their roster around. The challenge will be to resist the temptation to choose for immediate need and instead opt for talent that will raise the competitive ceiling in the long term. The possibility of trading down and accumulating more picks is also on the table if the main targets are exhausted early
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