Green Bay, WI – Following a first round that saw the Dallas Cowboys address a key need on the offensive line with the selection of guard Tyler Booker, all eyes now turn to tonight’s proceedings as Rounds 2 and 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft unfold. With the Cowboys holding the 12th pick in both the second and third rounds, they have prime opportunities to bolster their roster. However, the landscape of the draft could shift dramatically before they are on the clock again.
Examining the needs for the Cowboys, who finished 7-10 last season, reveals several areas that could be targeted. Reinforcements at wide receiver, running back, and along the defensive edge are all potential priorities. Additionally, adding depth at cornerback and offensive guard could be in the cards.
As Round 2 gets underway, the Cleveland Browns are currently on the clock with the first pick. Their listed needs are extensive – quarterback, offensive tackle, wide receiver, defensive tackle, and linebacker. Given the “Best Available” information, cornerback Will Johnson from Michigan is highly rated and could be a target for the Browns to solidify their secondary. Alternatively, quarterback Shedeur Sanders from Colorado is listed as a “Best Fit” and could entice Cleveland if they are looking to address their quarterback situation early.
The subsequent picks before the Cowboys’ second-round selection will be crucial in determining the available talent. Teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, and Baltimore Ravens, all picking before Dallas, could also be eyeing wide receivers, edge rushers, or defensive backs, potentially thinning the pool of top prospects at those positions.
Potential Second-Round Targets for Dallas:
Considering the Cowboys’ needs and the potential for other teams to snatch up top talent, here are a couple of players who could be on their radar when their pick at No. 43 overall comes around:
- TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State: Ranked as the No. 6 overall prospect, Henderson possesses the explosiveness and versatility that could inject much-needed dynamism into the Cowboys’ running game. If he slips past teams with earlier needs at running back, Dallas could pounce.
- Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State: With the potential for turnover at the wide receiver position, Higgins (ranked No. 11 overall) offers a blend of size and route-running ability that could complement the Cowboys’ existing receiving corps. His availability will depend on how early other teams address their receiving needs.
- Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame: Should the Cowboys prioritize bolstering their secondary, Morrison (ranked No. 31 overall) presents a high-upside cornerback prospect with good ball skills. If Will Johnson is off the board early, Morrison could be an attractive option.
Looking Ahead to the Third Round:
By the time the Cowboys are on the clock again in the third round (No. 76 overall), the draft board will look significantly different. However, focusing on their remaining needs, some potential targets could emerge:
- Jack Bech, WR, TCU: Ranked No. 26 overall, Bech is noted for his strong hands and ability to make contested catches. He could provide a reliable target for the Cowboys’ quarterback.
- Oluwafemi Oladejo, EDGE, UCLA: If the Cowboys haven’t addressed their need for an edge rusher by this point, Oladejo (ranked No. 28 overall) offers intriguing potential as a pass-rushing threat.
- Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina: Adding depth and athleticism to the linebacker corps could be a priority, and Knight Jr. (ranked No. 62 overall) fits that bill.
It’s important to remember that draft boards and team needs are fluid, and surprises are always in store. The Cowboys’ front office will need to be agile and prepared to capitalize on any unexpected falls of highly-rated players while also addressing their most pressing needs. Tonight’s action promises to be pivotal in shaping the Dallas Cowboys’ roster for the upcoming season.
