Cowboys rebound following controversial trade in 7-round mock draft

Round 3, Pick 87: Tykee Smith, S, Georgia

Dallas has two of their safeties locked up with Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker under contract for a couple more years. They typically play three safeties however and Jayron Kearse is unlikely to come back as he enters free agency. One option to replace him will be Markquese Bell, who spent much of this season playing linebacker. He will be able to slide into the "box safety" role but they need someone else who can cover.

That's where Tykee Smith comes in. Smith, who spent two years in West Virginia, blossomed during his three years with Georgia. This past season, he had 70 tackles with four picks. While his coverage is impressive, he can also be utilized in the box as evidenced by his 8.5 tackles for a loss and two sacks in 2023.

It will still be his coverage that makes him standout for Dallas and that's something they need in the worst way.

Round 3, Pick 99 (From Buffalo): Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State

Another area of concern for Dallas is in the middle of their defensive line. They were pleased with the performance of Osa Odighizuwa but Chauncey Goltston hasn't been highly effective when used next to him. That's not his fault since he's more of a defensive end but the Cowboys would be wise to get another defensive tackle who can help on all three downs.

That's why they use this selection (which they got from Buffalo in our earlier trade) to bring in Braden Fiske from Florida State. Known for his run-stuffing, Fiske is also more than capable of getting after the quarterback on passing downs.

He won't replace Mazi Smith, who they hope can still develop as a nose tackle, but he can play inside on third downs. He's also versatile enough to play on the edge, meaning there could be packages with him, Odighizuwa, and Smith on the field together.