2023 Dallas Cowboys: Stealing one player from every NFC East foe
By Ali Jawad
The Dallas Cowboys have reached the postseason in the past two seasons but twice came up short of the ultimate goal.
The 2023 edition of the Cowboys should excite fans with all the upgrades Dallas has made to their roster. Key additions like Brandin Cooks, Stephon Gilmore, and first-round selection Mazi Smith could all help fuel another postseason appearance.
What if the Cowboys were allowed to snag three players from their three-division rivals? What direction would they go? Would they address key areas of need or snag the best player from each of the three teams?
The Cowboys could also think long-term in a scenario like this one. Let's look at the most realistic options options from the NFC East that Dallas could snag away that would help better the roster now and in the long run.
Giants Player to Steal: OT Andrew Thomas
The New York Giants were one of the surprise teams a year ago. Multiple players stepped up and produced career seasons, including their now all-pro offensive tackle Andrew Thomas, as they made the playoffs as a wild card.
Thomas was drafted fourth overall in the 2020 draft and was brought in to help ensure protection and keep quarterback Daniel Jones on his feet. While he struggled initially, the third-year tackle took a giant leap forward in 2022.
Just how good was the former Georgia Bulldog? Per Pro Football Focus, Thomas allowed just three sacks all last season, committed just two penalties, and played 1,049 snaps. He is powerful, has violent hands, and can anchor down.
The Cowboys are pleased with what they have at tackle with Terrance Steele, Tyron Smith, and Tyler Smith. However, the older and future hall of fame Smith has had a history of injuries and is in a contract year.
Stealing Thomas away would give the Cowboys a younger and long-term option at left tackle. Tyler Smith can assume the left guard spot, and Steele can continue his right tackle responsibilities. Plus, let's factor in that Thomas still has two years left on his rookie deal, so Dallas would not have to be in a hurry to get an extension done.