The Dallas Cowboys Are Looking to Rebuild: A Mock Draft Strategy to Revamp the Team

The Dallas Cowboys are coming off a tough 2024 season, one that saw them fall short of expectations and leave fans and analysts questioning their future. With key issues on both sides of the ball, the Cowboys’ front office is focused on making the right moves in the upcoming NFL Draft to retool their roster and get back on the path to Super Bowl contention.

Luckily for Dallas, ESPN’s draft experts have proposed a plan that could help them address some of their biggest needs while adding significant talent to both the offense and defense. According to their mock draft, the Cowboys should focus on bolstering the offense, especially around quarterback Dak Prescott, while also improving their defensive depth. Let’s break down the potential picks that could make a real difference for the Cowboys in 2025.

Building Around Dak Prescott: Wide Receiver and Running Back

One of the most glaring issues for the Cowboys in 2024 was their lack of consistent playmakers beyond star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. While Lamb continues to be a top-tier talent, the Cowboys need to add another dynamic receiving threat to help take pressure off him and give Prescott more options in the passing game.

In ESPN’s mock draft, they suggest that the Cowboys target Matthew Golden, a standout wide receiver from one of the College Football Playoff teams. Golden’s performance this past season made him one of the most explosive players in college football. With 58 receptions, 987 yards, and a conference-leading nine touchdowns in the SEC, Golden averaged an impressive 17 yards per reception. His ability to stretch the field and make big plays could be exactly what Prescott needs to elevate the offense.

Adding Golden would provide Prescott with a reliable weapon who could quickly contribute at the professional level, opening up opportunities for Lamb and allowing the Cowboys to diversify their offensive attack. Golden’s speed and playmaking ability could make the Cowboys’ offense much more dangerous and unpredictable, something they sorely missed in 2024.

The Cowboys’ offense could also benefit from adding a dynamic running back. The mock draft suggests selecting a fast and versatile back in Sampson, whose speed and elusiveness could complement the power running of Tony Pollard. The combination of Pollard and Sampson could give the Cowboys a well-rounded backfield that keeps opposing defenses guessing.

Defensive Improvements: Strengthening the Line and Secondary

While offense should be a priority, the Cowboys cannot ignore their defense, especially after some inconsistencies last season. ESPN’s mock draft outlines how Dallas can address their defensive needs, starting with the defensive line and secondary.

The Cowboys’ defensive line could use more depth and strength, particularly in the interior. In this scenario, ESPN proposes selecting Williams, a dominant 1-technique defensive tackle. Partnering him next to Osa Odighizuwa could create a formidable force up the middle. Williams’ presence would help shore up the run defense and free up Odighizuwa to make more plays as a pass rusher, making the defensive line stronger overall.

Dallas also needs to continue building depth in the secondary. While the Cowboys have some solid players in the defensive backfield, adding more talent at cornerback and safety would help solidify their defense. By addressing these areas early in the draft, Dallas could quickly improve their defense, which has the potential to be one of the league’s most talented units if properly bolstered.

The Backup Quarterback: A Developmental Option

One of the more interesting aspects of this draft plan is the selection of Riley Leonard, a dual-threat quarterback from Notre Dame, as a developmental option for the Cowboys. While Prescott is the unquestioned starter, having a reliable backup who can develop behind him is crucial. Leonard’s dual-threat ability made him a key player in Notre Dame’s run to the national championship game, and his rushing ability could provide a unique element to the Cowboys’ quarterback room.

However, Leonard is not a finished product as a passer. While his athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs are impressive, he needs to work on his passing mechanics and decision-making. A year or two of development under Prescott’s mentorship and the Cowboys’ coaching staff could allow Leonard to become a capable backup and potentially a future starter if needed.

Conclusion: The 2025 Draft Could Be a Game-Changer for the Cowboys

The 2025 NFL Draft presents the Dallas Cowboys with an opportunity to right the ship after a disappointing 2024 season. With the right picks, they can add immediate playmakers on offense and strengthen key areas on defense. The proposed strategy from ESPN focuses on addressing the Cowboys’ most pressing needs, particularly at wide receiver, running back, and defensive line.

Matthew Golden could provide Prescott with another elite receiving option, while a speedy back like Sampson would give the team more balance in the backfield. On defense, selecting Williams could improve their interior line, and adding depth to the secondary would help make the defense more well-rounded. Additionally, bringing in a developmental quarterback like Riley Leonard offers long-term potential and security at the position.

If the Cowboys can execute this draft strategy effectively, they could quickly return to playoff contention and possibly make a run at the Super Bowl. For Dallas, this draft is not just about rebuilding; it’s about setting themselves up for sustained success in the years to come. Fans are hoping that the front office will make the right moves, and with the right pieces, the Cowboys can return to being one of the NFC’s top teams.