Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
The Dallas Cowboys have completed another immensely disappointing season. After failing to contend for a playoff spot, Dallas parted ways with Mike McCarthy, hiring Brian Schottenheimer as his replacement. The Cowboys hold the 12th pick in April’s draft, with clear weaknesses on their roster. With Dak Prescott‘s massive contract on the books, this team is not in an optimal position to begin a full rebuild. However, this draft will be a crucial opportunity for Dallas to round out their already talented roster. Here is a three-round Dallas Cowboys mock draft:
Round 1, Pick 12: Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State WR
Many fans may expect the Cowboys to target Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with this pick. However, valuable running backs can often be found in later rounds. Instead, Dallas may consider adding to their thin receiving core. Behind CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys are without a consistent threat at receiver. In 2024, Dallas was forced to rely on return specialist KaVontae Turpin to create explosive plays in the passing game. Emeka Egbuka would provide another consistent option to Dak Prescott. Egbuka excels at running clean routes and finding space in multiple areas of the field.
Round 2, Pick 44: Jalon Walker, Georgia LB
Cowboys’ linebacker DeMarvion Overshown had a breakout year in 2024, but he’s struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. If Dallas can add another athletic linebacker to its ranks, it could create one of the more dynamic defenses in the NFL. Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker is one of the most explosive athletes in this year’s draft class. If NFL teams view him as an edge rusher, he will likely be off the board before the Cowboys’ second-round pick. Walker has the ability to play on the edge or off the ball.
Round 3, Pick 76: Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State RB
With the top running backs in the class off the board in round three, Dallas could see Quinshon Judkins as a quality option. In 2024, Dallas was among the six worst rushing offenses in the NFL. Judkins would provide an explosive change of pace to current Cowboys back Rico Dowdle. This would help to make Dallas’ offense more balanced, taking the load off of Dak Prescott. At 6’0″, 219 lbs, Judkins has the size and strength to become a workhorse back in the NFL. He rushed for 1,060 yards and 14 touchdowns in his final collegiate season at Ohio State.
