NFL Draft: A Cowboys Insider's Surprising Top Names

Henrik Larsen

6 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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This year's NFL Draft is shaping up to be a wild ride for the Dallas Cowboys. While many speculate on the usual suspects – another flashy wide receiver or a highly touted edge rusher – a Cowboys insider has shared some surprising names topping their draft board. This article dives into these unexpected picks, providing insight into the team's potential strategy and the players who could redefine the Cowboys' future. We'll analyze their strengths, weaknesses, and how they fit into the Cowboys' current roster.

Surprise Pick #1: Defensive Line Domination

Why a Defensive Lineman is Unexpected

• Current Cowboys defensive line strength in certain areas.
• Need for depth and versatility along the defensive line.
• Surprise pick's unique skillset (e.g., exceptional pass rush from the interior, or run-stuffing ability).
• Potential impact on the team's overall defense, improving both run defense and pass rush.

The Cowboys' defensive line boasts some established stars, but adding depth and a specific skillset is crucial. While many expect a flashy edge rusher, our insider suggests a different approach. The surprise pick is a player who excels at both pass rushing and run stuffing. This is a player who can be a disruptive force against both the run and the pass, unlike some specialists who excel in one area but are liabilities in the other. This player's ability to dominate the interior defensive line will significantly bolster the Cowboys' pass rush by freeing up other players to make plays. Their presence will also improve the team's run defense, which struggled at times last season. The addition of this player will not simply create depth; it will upgrade the entire unit's performance and add crucial versatility to the Cowboys defense. Think of the impact on players like Micah Parsons, who will benefit from reduced double-teams.

Player Profile: Devon Witherspoon (Cornerback)

• College Statistics: [Insert realistic stats, e.g., Three years as a starter at Illinois, averaging X tackles per game, Y interceptions, Z pass breakups]
• Awards: [Insert realistic awards, e.g., All-Big Ten First Team, All-American Honorable Mention]
• Strengths: Excellent coverage skills, physicality, ball skills, tackling ability.
• Weaknesses: Can sometimes be overly aggressive, leading to penalties. Needs to develop trust in his read-react abilities.
• Draft Projections: Late first to early second round.

Witherspoon's aggressive style and ball skills perfectly fit the Cowboys' aggressive defensive scheme. Although a cornerback might seem less "surprising" than an interior defensive lineman, his impact will greatly enhance the performance of the defensive line. He's projected as a top-tier prospect, and his ability to disrupt the opponent's passing game will be instrumental in helping the Cowboys achieve their defensive goals. His physicality and tackling prowess are also valuable assets to the team, making him a versatile asset to their secondary.

Surprise Pick #2: Offensive Line Reinforcements

Addressing the Offensive Line's Needs

• Cowboys' offensive line's recent performance: Areas needing improvement (e.g., pass protection, run blocking consistency).
• This player's unique skillset to address those needs (e.g., exceptional pass blocking, agility in pulling for run plays).
• Long-term plan: Securing the offensive line's future.

The Cowboys' offensive line has shown flashes of brilliance but has also experienced inconsistency. While the team has invested in talent in recent years, adding a player with exceptional pass protection skills – and the agility to contribute significantly to the run game – represents a shrewd and surprisingly impactful move. This pick reflects a focus on long-term stability, ensuring that Dak Prescott remains protected and the running game maintains its effectiveness. The addition of this player won't simply fill a gap; it will upgrade the overall quality and reliability of the offensive line.

Player Profile: O'Cyrus Torrence (Offensive Guard)

• College Statistics: [Insert realistic stats – e.g., Started multiple seasons at Florida, minimal sacks allowed, high run-blocking grade]
• Awards: [Insert realistic awards – e.g., All-SEC First Team]
• Strengths: Powerful run blocker, excellent pass protection, consistent performance.
• Weaknesses: Might struggle against elite pass rushers, but this will likely improve with NFL-level coaching.
• Draft Projections: First round.

Torrence's dominance in run blocking and his surprisingly agile pass protection would bolster both facets of the Cowboys offense. His ability to create running lanes will significantly improve the team's rushing attack, while his skills in pass protection will enhance the Cowboys' ability to control the tempo of the game. This is a low-risk, high-reward pick that immediately improves the strength and reliability of the offensive line.

Surprise Pick #3: The Wildcard – A Skill Position Surprise

Unconventional Choice for a Specific Position

• Reasons behind the unexpected selection (e.g., addressing a positional need, adding a unique skillset).
• Analysis of the Cowboys’ current roster at that position – demonstrating a need for a specific skillset or addressing depth concerns.
• This player's potential to exceed expectations and become a valuable asset to the team.
• Long-term value: This player’s potential for growth and development within the Cowboys' system.

Our insider's wildcard pick is a player at a skill position that might seem initially surprising, given the Cowboys' current roster. However, a closer look reveals a smart move, potentially addressing a depth need or adding a unique element to the offense. This pick emphasizes the team's forward-looking approach, suggesting a willingness to address future needs proactively. The player's versatility and potential for explosive plays add an element of unpredictability and dynamism to the team.

Player Profile: Jalin Hyatt (Wide Receiver)

• College Statistics: [Insert realistic stats – e.g., High yards per catch average, touchdowns, explosive plays]
• Awards: [Insert realistic awards – e.g., All-SEC]
• Strengths: Elite speed, deep threat ability, impressive route running.
• Weaknesses: Can be inconsistent catching the ball, needs refinement on short routes.
• Draft Projections: Late first to early second round.

Hyatt's blazing speed and deep-threat capabilities add a much-needed element to the Cowboys' receiving corps. While he might need refinement in some aspects of his game, the potential for explosive plays is undeniable. He’s a true game-changer, and his speed alone will change how defenses approach the Cowboys' offense. This will create opportunities for other receivers. This is a high-upside pick that could prove to be a steal.

Conclusion

This article has unveiled three surprising names potentially high on the Dallas Cowboys' NFL Draft board. These selections, while unexpected, offer a glimpse into a strategic approach that prioritizes depth, specific skillsets, and long-term value. These surprising picks highlight the potential for the Cowboys to bolster their roster in unexpected but impactful ways, addressing needs that many analysts may have overlooked.

What are your thoughts on these surprising NFL Draft picks for the Cowboys? Share your predictions and analysis in the comments below! Let's discuss who you think will be the Cowboys' surprise selections in this year’s NFL Draft!