Best-case scenario for the Dallas Cowboys in the 2022 NFL Draft
3. Dallas Adds LB or DE in First Three Rounds
The third position I want to be addressed in the first three rounds would be either linebacker or defensive end. While these positions aren’t huge needs, this draft is extremely deep in each position and it would be well worth adding a player at one of the two. Plus, the Cowboys can use depth after losing Randy Gregory
This is not just about adding another prospect, but also about allowing Micah Parsons to move around the field more on defense. Head coach Mike McCarthy has already shared that he doesn’t want Parsons moving to defensive end or getting stuck playing primarily in one spot.
I would prefer to address one of these positions in either Round 2 or 3 unless an elite prospect like Jermaine Johnson II or Devin Lloyd falls to the ‘Boys at 24, which would be a no-brainer.
In Round 2, players I would like the Cowboys to target would be defensive ends David Ojabo, Boye Mafe, Arnold Ebiketie, or Nik Bonitto. Each of these players were seen as elite pass rushers last season and could immediately come in and contribute at the edge position.
Likely will have 5 EDGEs in top half of the first round, but teams in 20s and 30s looking for pass rushers too.#Oklahoma's Nik Bonitto had a 27% win rate as a pass rusher (per @PFF_College), and is well liked. One of 3 EDGE's that should be picked between 23-40. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/pcTShHoXMn
— Eric Galko (@EricGalko) April 15, 2022
As far as linebackers in the second round, I would love for the team to consider Quay Walker, Chad Muma, or Christian Harris. Each can fill in the outside linebacker role and contribute immediately. For Round 3 prospects, at defensive end, I would love for the Cowboys to target Sam Williams or Drake Jackson. They are both capable of rushing the passer in stand-up or with their hand in the dirt.
Linebackers for Round 3 are Troy Andersen, Leo Chenal, and Channing Tindall. Chenal can provide a middle linebacker option while Andersen and Tindall can fill the outside linebacker spot.
Adding any of the players mentioned would make an immediate impact on this defense. At this point of my best-case scenario, we make Dak Prescott and Parsons’s lives easier by adding protection up front, a receiving weapon, and a defensive contributor.