The NFL Draft represents a fresh start for teams. The right pick at the right time can deliver almost immediate success, and the Cowboys exemplify this. When Dallas has picked in the top half of the first round, their draftees have consistently made NFL history.
Though the Cowboys’ 7-10 record in 2024 excluded them from the postseason, there was a silver lining: it secured them the 12th pick in the upcoming draft, improving their odds of landing their next franchise player.
History supports the Cowboys’ drafting prowess. According to DallasCowboys.com analyst Mickey Spagnola, Dallas has drafted in the top half of the first round in 26 of the 59 drafts held so far. The results? Seven players have gone on to the Hall of Fame, and 19 have earned Pro Bowl nods. Not bad at all.
Cowboys’ draft history
The Cowboys have held the first overall pick three times, yielding extraordinary results: Ed “Too Tall” Jones (1974), Troy Aikman (1989), and Russell Maryland (1991). All three are Super Bowl champions, with Jones and Aikman also holding Hall of Fame honors.
Other standout first-round picks include Ezekiel Elliott (No. 4 overall, 2016), Emmitt Smith (No. 17, 1990), Bob Lilly (No. 13, 1961), Randy White (No. 2, 1975), Tyron Smith (No. 9, 2011), and Zack Martin (No. 16, 2014), among others. These players have left indelible marks on the league.
This April 28, the Cowboys will once again select at No. 12, a position they’ve held only three times before. The results? Micah Parsons (2021), Alvin Harper (1991), and Danny Noonan (1987)-each made significant contributions to Cowboys lore.
2025 draft predictions
The Cowboys’ 2024 season highlighted gaps across multiple positions, making it difficult to predict their first-round choice this year. Analysts’ opinions vary: some favor receivers like Tetairoa McMillan, Matthew Golden, or Emeka Egbuka; others suggest defensive back Will Johnson or defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
The Cowboys’ choice on April 24 will shape their future. Whether they focus on offense or defense, the right pick could be the key to transforming a lackluster season into a deep playoff run.
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