5 bold predictions for the Cowboys during the 2023 NFL Draft

4. Nose tackle joins the ranks

For years, Dallas fans were frustrated at the philosophy the front office and coaching staff took when it came to defensive linemen. They simply didn’t believe big defensive tackles were needed while Rod Marinelli was the defensive coordinator.

Time and again, they were bullied by rushing attacks but continued to insist it had nothing to do with their lack of size and power along the interior. But thankfully, this changed under Mike McCarthy who has continually tried to bring in big bodies.

He hasn’t always gotten it right but has continued to try. That includes a trade last year for Johnathan Hankins from the Las Vegas Raiders. Hankins did a decent job and was re-signed but he’s 31 years old and did miss seven games last year.

That’s why it makes sense for the Cowboys to add some youth as depth behind Hankins. One name that could make sense is P.J. Mustipher of Penn State.

A 320-pound nose tackle, Mustipher should be available in the later rounds. His production is nothing to write home about but that’s often the case with nose tackles. They could also consider Keondre Coburn from Texas or even Jerrod Clark from Coastal Carolina — all of whom could be day three selections.