6 low-key options for Cowboys that are flying under the radar in the draft
By Randy Gurzi
Cowboys low-key option No. 5: Antonio Mafi, IOL, UCLA
With the idea to start Tyler Smith at left tackle and Tyron Smith on the right side, the Cowboys could be putting a solid starter — actually their best from 2022 — on the bench. While Terence Steele would be a great security blanket at tackle, this move would also create a massive hole at left guard — which is where Tyler Smith originally played during his rookie campaign.
No matter how much any of us disagrees with the strategy, it's what the Cowboys are likely going to do which means they need to find someone who can start at the position. Right now, their best option is Chuma Edoga, a free-agent pick up from the New York Jets. But they could look to the draft for more depth and Steve Avila has been a name linked to Dallas.
Should the draft fall in a way that they don't land Avila, the Cowboys could fall back on someone such as Antonio Mafi from UCLA. One of their pre-draft visits, Mafi is a massive player at 6-foot-4 and 355 pounds. He's also still learning the position after beginning his career with the Bruins as a nose tackle.
Antonio Mafi (@mafiatonio) is a 6'3" 340-pound Monster. I'm surprised the UCLA LG isn't being talked about more. He's super physical at the POA, has great Reach Ability, and can process well in Pass Pro. pic.twitter.com/xbtuTv0klH
— Sanjit T. (@Sanjit__T) February 23, 2023
Mafi spent 2021 rotating into the lineup before breaking out as a star this past season. Due to his lack of experience, he's not on too many radars right now but could wind up being a diamond in the rough.