The Dallas Cowboys could opt for a splashy pick early in the 2025 NFL Draft, as selecting one of the top wide receivers or leaning on Boise State star running back Ashton Jeanty could go a long way toward fixing some of their issues on the offensive side of the ball.
However, if the Cowboys are to use this pick in an area that would fix their most immediate need, look for Jerry Jones and Will McClay to invest in some defensive line standouts. The lack of development from Mazi Smith has illustrated how paper-thin Dallas can be in this area.
While Dallas won't be able to select a player like Michigan's Mason Graham due to their overall record, they could be in range for many first-round standouts in a class that is as deep on the defensive line as any class in the last half-decade. One possible name the Cowboys could consider has officially announced he is turning pro.
Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen has confirmed that he will go pro and miss out on his final collegiate season. If the Cowboys are picking in the middle of the first round, and Nolen is on the board, he should be a slam-dunk selection for this front office.
Cowboys NFL Draft target Walter Nolen officially leaving Ole Miss
Nolen, who had a somewhat disappointing career at Texas A&M, has truly stepped on the gas since transferring to Ole Miss. With the Rebels, Nolen piled up 6.5 sacks and set himself up as the best interior pass rusher in this class, alongside Michigan star and possible Top 5 pick Mason Graham.
A good player comparison for Nolen could be Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver, as both of them are able to be effective pass rushers and run-stuffers while clocking in at under 300 pounds. In an age where interior defensive tackles under 300 pounds are having some success lately, Nolen's physical traits are worth gambling on.
Of course, Dallas' plan could go up in flames if Nolen proves unable to handle NFL power. Smith has many faults, but eating up space is not one of them. This stylistic change could lead to some wondering if Nolen could be overwhelmed as a rookie.
While Nolen might not be the sexiest pick in the world, he may be the best possible player when it comes to making an impact during his rookie season and plugging a hole that has helped neuter this team's playoff push in 2024.