3 players the Cowboys should trade up for in the 2023 draft
3. Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
The end is near for the new “Great Wall of Dallas”. While all the starters from last year’s offensive line are returning, injuries have plagued the line for the past several seasons. Outside of tight end, offensive tackle is arguably the team’s biggest need. Tyler Smith filled in well for Tyron Smith last season, but more depth is needed. For that, the Cowboys might want to consider moving up to take another Buckeye.
Paris Johnson Jr. is ranked in the top five by most experts at offensive tackle in this year’s draft. He played in all 13 of his team’s games his junior season and was named a consensus All-American. Kiper projects Johnson to go to the Buccaneers at pick 19 as the fourth offensive lineman off the board.
Trading up to take an offensive lineman would raise some eyebrows, but the Cowboys likely would not have to trade up too high. Going from 26th to just inside the 20s seems reasonable. While Tyler Smith was drafted as a potential Tyron Smith replacement, his natural position is guard. Getting Johnson might prove to be a more suitable replacement on the left or right side of the line.
Signing Chuma Edoga in March helps with depth, but the Cowboys should be addressing offensive line in the draft and probably with a few picks. With the losses of Connor McGovern and Jason Peters, help is needed for a line looking to help Prescott get back on track in 2023. Trading up to draft Johnson would be an instant boost and provide a capable true left or right tackle backup.
Trading up in the first round of the draft is not easy, but it does create plenty of drama. Jerry Jones loves to grab headlines and shock the world so it is not farfetched to believe he will consider making a trade to move up. Reports said he tried to trade up last year but did not get anywhere. Thursday night of the draft could be one of the most entertaining for Dallas in a while if they play their cards right.
