3 draft prospects the Cowboys can get to replace Randy Gregory

1. Boye Mafe, Minnesota

You probably realize by now that I am targeting all of the freak athletes for the Cowboys. Being able to do things on a football field that can not be coached is what makes a future star player. For example, the hunger and versatility of Micah Parsons cannot be taught. His versatility was power all his own.

I believe enough in Dan Quinn and the developmental staff that they can turn these elite athletes into great NFL players. Boye Mafe from Minnesota is another player that fits that mold. Mafe stands 6-4, 265 pounds, and can run like the wind.

The most impressive testing results from Mafe were his 4.53-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and 41.5″ vertical jump at Minnesota’s Pro Day – both of which are crazy for a 261-pound player. Mafe was initially lower on the draft boards, but he continues to soar up after his impressive testing. Now, he’s expected to be drafted no later than the second round.

His Senior Bowl week was phenomenal as the former Golden Gopher was named National Team Player of the Game. He had similar success during the 2021 college season, with 10 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, and being named All-Big Ten second team by the media.

It would be great if Mafe were still available in the second round for Dallas, but it seems more likely that he would be a great trade-back candidate for the team if they decided to move off the 24th overall pick.

Ultimately, the loss of Gregory presents the Cowboys with a hole that needs to be filled, and any of these edge rushers would be great additions to the defense. We know that Parsons plans to move around the field next year, but a permanent starting fill in at defensive end is a big need.