As the 2024 NFL season progresses, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a critical crossroads with a 3-3 record. Entering their bye week, the team currently sits in a middle-of-the-pack position, hypothetically eyeing the 16th overall pick if the season ended today. While there’s still plenty of football left to be played, it’s never too early to speculate about the future. Let’s take a way-too-early look at what the 2025 NFL Draft could hold for the Cowboys.
Barring any trades before the November 5 deadline, Dallas will maintain five of its original picks. They traded away their sixth-round selection to the New York Giants for Jordan Phillips and sent their seventh-round pick to the Detroit Lions in exchange for Tyler Guyton. However, the Cowboys are expected to receive up to four compensatory picks next year, keeping their draft plans well-stocked.
Using Pro Football Focus’ mock draft simulator, here’s a potential draft strategy for the Cowboys:
Round 1, Pick 16 – DE Abdul Carter, Penn State
Abdul Carter echoes the prowess of Micah Parsons, donning the same No. 11 at Penn State. At 6’3″ and 260 pounds, Carter blends athleticism with versatility, transitioning seamlessly from linebacker to defensive end. He is currently projected as a Top 10 draft prospect for 2025. If he’s available, Dallas should not hesitate to select him, as he possesses a powerful pass rush that can rattle opposing quarterbacks—just ask USC.
Round 2, Pick 48 – CB Shavon Revel, East Carolina
Shavon Revel would have been a first-round candidate if not for an ACL injury that prematurely ended his season. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 190 pounds, Revel’s return could bolster the Cowboys’ secondary. Alongside Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland, Revel’s agility and instincts in both man and zone coverage could make him an instant starter, ensuring his top-50 potential remains intact.
Round 3, Pick 80 – WR Kyren Lacy, LSU
Kyren Lacy has embraced the WR1 role at LSU this season, standing tall at 6’2″ and 213 pounds. Bringing Lacy to Dallas could revitalize the receiving corps, relieving some pressure off CeeDee Lamb. His impressive playing style makes him a significant threat on the field—defenders will definitely have their hands full.
Round 4, Pick 117 – DT Derrick Harmon, Oregon
With Osa Odighizuwa possibly departing in free agency, Dallas needs reinforcement on its defensive line. Derrick Harmon, who made waves after transferring from Michigan State to Oregon, fits the bill perfectly. Known for his ability to withstand double teams and anchor against the run, Harmon would provide the Cowboys’ defense with much-needed strength.
Round 5, Pick 152 – RB D.J. Giddens, Kansas State
The running back position is deep in the 2025 class, making D.J. Giddens a steal in the fifth round. At 6’1″ and 216 pounds, he embodies the profile of a starting running back—able to absorb contact while bringing a dynamic presence to the roster. Drafting Giddens would mark the third Kansas State player to join the Cowboys in recent years, highlighting the talent emerging from Manhattan.
While it’s fun to speculate about draft possibilities, the Cowboys’ immediate focus must remain on their on-field performance. However, with such exciting prospects on the horizon, fans can’t help but dream about the next wave of talent set to arrive in Dallas.
