Could Cowboys Target Fast-Rising DB in 2025 NFL Draft?

The Dallas Cowboys’ primary focus during the 2025 NFL Draft has been on improving their offense, with heavy speculation surrounding the team’s need for additional weapons at wide receiver and running back. However, could the Cowboys surprise everyone by targeting a fast-rising defensive back? With the defense looking to solidify its secondary and compete against some of the NFL’s most dynamic passing attacks, one name has been turning heads: Maxwell Hairston.

The Shift Toward Defense: A Strategic Move?

In recent drafts, the Cowboys have leaned heavily on offense, with their sights set on providing quarterback Dak Prescott with the tools needed to run a high-powered attack. But as the NFL continues to evolve with pass-heavy offenses and speed-dominant wide receivers, Dallas’ defense needs to keep pace. A fast and explosive cornerback could be just what the Cowboys need to bolster their secondary and make a serious run for the Super Bowl.

Maxwell Hairston, a standout cornerback from Kentucky, has quickly risen up draft boards due to his impressive physical attributes and playmaking ability. While many still expect the Cowboys to prioritize offense in the early rounds, Hairston’s skills may be too tempting to pass up if he’s available.

Maxwell Hairston: A Cornerback on the Rise

Maxwell Hairston has done everything in his power to solidify his position as one of the top defensive back prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his fluid hips, lightning-fast feet, and impressive change-of-direction skills, Hairston is a cornerback who can cover some of the league’s quickest wide receivers. His ability to make critical interceptions, paired with his elite athleticism, has caught the eye of scouts, coaches, and NFL teams alike.

During his senior season at Kentucky, Hairston led the SEC with five interceptions, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays. Despite dealing with an injury in 2023, he still proved to be one of the top cornerbacks in the conference. His agility and speed were on full display during the NFL Combine, where Hairston ran a blazing 40-yard dash, reaching a top speed of 24.25 mph. This was the second-fastest speed recorded by a cornerback in the past three years, solidifying Hairston as one of the fastest defensive prospects in this year’s draft class.

The Speed Factor: Matching the NFL’s Top Receivers

In today’s NFL, where wide receivers continue to get faster and more explosive, cornerbacks need to be able to match that speed to succeed. Hairston’s ability to cover ground quickly and shut down explosive plays could make him an invaluable asset for the Cowboys. With teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and Kansas City Chiefs boasting high-speed receiving corps, the Cowboys will need a cornerback who can keep up with these threats.

Hairston’s speed and football IQ make him an ideal fit for Dallas’ defensive needs. The Cowboys have already seen the impact of a shutdown corner in Trevon Diggs, but adding another dynamic defensive back would create a formidable secondary. Hairston’s speed would not only help in defending against speedy wideouts but also give the defense an edge in creating turnovers and closing in on ball carriers quickly.

A First-Round or Second-Round Gamble?

The biggest hurdle for the Cowboys in pursuing Maxwell Hairston is his projected draft position. After an exceptional combine and standout college career, Hairston is likely to go off the board in the first round, potentially as one of the top cornerbacks selected. Given the Cowboys’ roster needs, particularly on offense, they may be reluctant to use a first-round pick on a defensive player.

However, if Hairston falls to the second round, the Cowboys could find themselves in a position to pounce on the talented cornerback. It’s a rare opportunity for a team to add such a dynamic defensive back at such a pivotal point in the draft. Hairston’s skill set and athleticism would make him a valuable addition to a team that’s already poised for playoff contention.

The Cowboys’ Defensive Future

If Hairston is selected by the Cowboys, it would send a clear message that the team is serious about strengthening its defense to compete at the highest level. The pairing of Diggs and Hairston could give Dallas one of the most formidable cornerback duos in the NFL, providing the Cowboys’ defense with the ability to handle the league’s toughest passing attacks. Furthermore, Hairston’s versatility and speed would allow him to adapt to different defensive schemes, making him an ideal fit for new defensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer’s system.

Conclusion: A Playmaking Cornerback for the Future

As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, the Dallas Cowboys have a critical decision to make. While most of the buzz has been around bolstering the offense, taking a fast-rising cornerback like Maxwell Hairston could be the key to fortifying their defense and building a championship-caliber team. Hairston’s speed, agility, and ability to make plays on the ball could give the Cowboys the edge they need to compete with the NFL’s top teams.

If Hairston falls to the second round, the Cowboys would be wise to consider him as a cornerstone for their defense. With a strong secondary already in place, Hairston could provide the Cowboys with an explosive new weapon on defense, making them even more dangerous in the quest for Super Bowl glory.