The Dallas Cowboys may have started off the 2025 NFL Draft strong, as the early returns on right guard Tyler Booker (No. 12 overall pick) and pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku (No. 44 overall) seem to be very encouraging. One of the downsides of the 2025 class is the reality that many of the Day 3 picks are not going to contribute much.
As the Cowboys approach roster cutdown day following their preseason duel against the Atlanta Falcons, all signs point to some of the young players on the roster failing to make it over the line. Even if they stick on the practice squad, cutting as many as three different rookies isn't a great look for Will McClay.
According to ESPN's Todd Archer, sixth-round offensive tackle Ajani Cornelius might face long odds when it comes to avoiding the axe, as the depth the Cowboys have at the tackle spots "hurt his chances to make the 53-man roster" despite some flashes in the preseason.
Cowboys could cut three 2025 NFL Draft picks after preseason
Archer also views seventh-round running back Phil Mafah and defensive tackle Tommy Akingbesote as players who are likely headed for the practice squad. However, Archer was very complimentary of seventh-round tackle Jay Toia, who he believes has done enough to secure a roster spot.
Cornelius might be the hardest one to cut of the three, as Archer did concede that his play in the preseason was better than some of the reps he put on tape in practice. Dallas may not want to give up on a young offensive lineman so quickly, which could make this a very challenging decision.
Mafah has flashed in much the same way he did at Clemson, but he is suffering from Dallas' menagerie of veterans ahead of him blocking off playing time. With fellow rookie Jaydon Blue also ahead of him on the depth chart, Mafah entered camp with long odds to make the final 53. The vast majority of Cowboys fans want Mafah on the roster over Miles Sanders.
It seemed unlikely that both Toia and Akingbestoe were going to make Dallas' final roster together, and Toia has proven to be the much better run defender throughout the offseason. That ability to fill a very specific role could be all that is needed to help him solidify a spot.