3 Day 2 targets that will give Cowboys A+ draft after Mazi Smith pick

The Dallas Cowboys shockingly took Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith with the 26th overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft on Thursday.

In 30 games at Michigan, Smith had 88 tackles and was a supreme run-stopper. This pick wasn't one that fans were necessarily thrilled about right away, but it filled a need for Dallas, which was the 11th-worst rush defense in the league last year and need a run-stopper to fill that hole and add depth to the defensive line.

After a stunning Day 1, the Cowboys head into day two of the draft with two crucial picks They have the 58th pick and the 90th pick and will look to add more immediate talent to their squad starting tonight at 6pm CT.

Here are three players they should target.

3 Day 2 targets that would give Cowboys A+ draft

3. Steve Avila, OG, TCU

Having depth on the offensive line is crucial.

The Cowboys underwent several injuries to their offensive line last season and the next-man-up mentality was in full effect down the stretch. Drafting Avila at 58 would guarantee Dallas depth on the offensive line as he would have the chance to immediately start at left guard.

Dallas has drifted the thought of trying Terrance Steele at guard, but the safer pick would be to take Avila. Steele is coming off a season-ending torn ACL and might not be ready once the season starts. He's a natural tackle and could be a future star on the Dallas line once Tyron Smith retires.

Avila is a natural leader and is the definition of what the Cowboys need on their offensive line. He started games at both center and guard during his college career and would provide depth for Dallas in his ability to play multiple positions. Avila didn't allow a sack during TCU's historic season last year and would help keep quarterback Dak Prescott upright.

He has a big frame and his versatility would be much needed on the Cowboys. He is excellent at blocking for inside run plays and would clear the way for Tony Pollard and company.

He also would be staying right at home. Before playing at TCU, Avila went to South Grand Prairie High School. South Grand Prairie is less than 20 minutes way from AT&T Stadium and he would feel right at home as he would be staying in DFW if taken by Dallas.

This would be a steal for the Cowboys at 58th overall and they must take him if he's available.