Dallas Cowboys 53-man roster prediction following 2023 NFL Draft

Defensive Line (10):

DeMarcus Lawrence
Osa Odighizuwa
Mazi Smith
Dante Fowler
Dorance Armstrong
Sam Williams
Neville Gallimore
Viliami Fehoko
Chauncey Golston
Johnathan Hankins

It was a bit of a surprise to see Mazi Smith selected at No. 26 but it made a lot of sense. For years, Dallas has neglected the defensive tackle position. They've rolled out one third-round pick after another and for every Osa Odighizuwa who comes in and performs well, they get one Neville Gallimore who is fine, but a better reserve.

Behind those two, they have Johnathan Hankins who will specialize in run defense. Gallimore remains and can play either D-tackle spot. Chauncey Golston is considered a defensive end but can play the 3-tech as well, and will see the field plenty on passing downs again in 2023.

If the D-tackle spot feels crowded, it's nothing compared to the EDGE. DeMarcus Lawrence and Dorance Armstrong are the likely starters but Dante Fowler will be out there a lot — especially when it comes to passing downs. Sam Williams flashed as a rookie with four sacks and could challenge Fowler.

Throw in rookie Viliami Fehoko and it's beyond crowded. There was talk of his versatility allowing him to move inside occasionally, but Golston is already doing this. Don't be shocked if someone is used as trade bait.

What's impressive is, all of this is being said about the defensive line and we haven't even looked at their best pass rusher — who actually lines up as a linebacker.