The Dallas Cowboys may have a new head coach in Brian Schottenheimer, but they are perpetually expected to make some noise in the NFC thanks to the reputation Jerry Jones has established. Even with lofty goals, this Cowboys roster is in need of some young talent in the worst way.
Dallas will need multiple new skill position players to ensure that CeeDee Lamb doesn't have to do everything next season. The defensive backfield is lacking in depth, and more offensive line help is needed after the retirement of future Hall of Fame guard Zack Martin.
The Cowboys are likely well aware of the knife edge they are currently walking on. Without a plan in place that turns them into a winner, like this 2025 7-round mock draft does, heads may roll amid yet another disappointing season for America's Team.
Dallas Cowboys 7-round NFL Mock Draft
Round 1, Pick 12: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
While McMillan has been the victim of some prospect fatigue after going through the season as the wire-to-wire top wide receiver prospect in this class, the former Wildcats star is both someone who could immediately challenge for 1,000 yards in the pros and provide a terrific stylistic complement to Lamb.
McMillan's testing numbers answered questions about his long speed. With an endless catch radius and more ability than most receivers his size to make plays underneath, McMillan and Lamb could very easily give Dak Prescott one of the most talented receiver duos in the NFC.
Round 2, Pick 44: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State
Judkins will get compared to teammate and fellow expected Top 50 pick TreVeyon Henderson quite often. While Henderson is the faster player and better home-run threat, Judkins' angry running style and superior contact balance could make him a better option for grinding out yards between the tackles.
Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders will be coming into the fold to replace Rico Dowdle, but Judkins could provide a more permanent solution than two declining veterans on cheap deals. Judkins should end the Cowboys' season as the unquestioned top dog in the backfield.
Round 3, Pick 76: Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State
Parrish isn't the biggest corner at 5-10 and 190 pounds, but he is so technically exceptional that he could have gone a whole round earlier if he was slightly bigger. With lockdown man coverage skills, great speed, and solid tackling ability, Parrish could be a steal who plays a ton of snaps early in his career.
Round 5, Pick 149: Jalen Rivers, OT/IOL, Miami
Rivers is a former top recruit who has experience at both guard and tackle. With an 83-inch wingspan and a 320-pound frame that he knows how to get the most out of, Rivers will be a promising addition to an offensive line room that is very much in flux.
Round 5, Pick 174: Kobe King, LB, Penn State
King is not going to impress many coaches when they take a look at his coverage skills, but he is one of the better run-stuffers out there for the Day 3 draft picks. As a two-down run defender, there's potential in King if Dallas makes him passable in zone coverage.
Round 6, Pick 204: Jack Nelson, OT, Wisconsin
Nelson isn't the best with handling speed on the outside, choosing instead to flex his tremendous upper body strength and mean demeanor when creating holes in the running game. Nelson is a developmental tackle with upside, as his run blocking gives him a fairly high floor.
Round 6, Pick 211: Jordan Hancock, SAF, Ohio State
Hancock has experience as an outside cornerback, nickel cornerback, and safety, all while showing an athletic profile that suggests he could be an ace special teamer. Late in the sixth round, there aren't many do-it-all depth pieces like Hancock on the board,
Round 7, Pick 217: Arian Smith, WR, Georgia
Smith's game is all about speed, as there's a good chance that he will be one of the fastest players in the league the second he comes into the pros. He and KaVontae Turpin could push each other for playing time, even after limited college production.
Round 7, Pick 239: Nick Martin, LB, Oklahoma State
There will be safeties in the NFL bigger than the 221-pound Martin, but his speed suggests he could be a very dynamic backup and special teamer at the next level.
Round 7, Pick 247: Yahya Black, DT, Iowa
Black is a space eater inside that weighs close to 340 pounds. He will slide a bit due to his size, but there is enough power there for him to stick in a very limited role with the Cowboys.