Cowboys 2023 NFL mock draft: Christian Gonzalez shores up secondary
By Randy Gurzi
As infuriating as it can be at times, the Dallas Cowboys have become all about building through the draft. They believe in this so much that they refuse to sign outside free agents far too often, but the good news is that they have at least been drafting well.
Outside of a few misses — looking at you Taco Charlton and Trysten Hill — Dallas has built a strong foundation this way. Here, we look to continue that build as we make our own selections in this 2023 Cowboys mock draft.
Another edition of a Cowboys 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft
Round 1: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
Trevon Diggs has developed into the player this front office hoped he would become — even if he takes far too much unfair criticism. The problem is that they have yet to find the answer across from him.
Anthony Brown continues to be the starter but he’s been up and down throughout his career. They did add Kelvin Joseph in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft but he’s been a major disappointment. That’s why they focus on the position here as their top selection in this mock is Christian Gonzalez from Oregon.
A transfer from Colorado, Gonzalez has the measurements Dan Quinn wants at 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds. He’s also vastly improved his ball skills this season, picking off the first three passes of his career. Throw in the fact that he has 17 pass defenses and six tackles for a loss and he should be a solid No. 2 cornerback.
Regardless of position, there aren’t too many prospects playing better than Oregon CB Christian Gonzalez right now. The second INT last week vs. Colorado showed off a lot of his traits. pic.twitter.com/Y3SOoMmBCo
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) November 9, 2022
Over the past two seasons, Dallas has seen their defense improve but they’re still susceptible in a couple of spots. This addresses one of their glaring weaknesses and could help the entire unit round into shape.