NFL Draft grades: Grading every pick the Cowboys made in 2024 NFL Draft
By Jerry Trotta
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Cowboys draft grade for Marshawn Kneeland: B
Marshawn Kneeland came out of left field, but Draft Twitter swiftly raved about the selection. Kneeland was the No. 32 overall player on Dane Brugler's big board. The Cowboys got him at pick No. 56 in round two, so the value speaks for itself.
Kneeland actually posted the highest athletic score amongst all edge defenders, according to Nex Gen Stats. He had a higher score than first-round picks Dallas Turner and Chop Robinson in that regard. He pairs that athleticism with a relentless pursuit to the football.
With 33 3/4" inch arms and stonewall hands, Kneeland is a nightmare to block. He can set the edge against the run, which speaks to why the Cowboys view him as DeMarcus Lawrence's long-term replacement. He has freaky agility for his size and he has the traits to be an impact player from day one with the potential to morph into a true difference-maker once he molds his raw tools.
Cowboys draft grade for Cooper Beebe: A+
What is there not to love about the Cooper Beebe pick? It was shocking that Beebe fell out of the second round, let alone to the 73rd overall selection. Many draft analysts view Beebe as the steal of the entire draft.
Not only was Beebe a consensus first-team All-American last season for Kansas State, but he was First-Team All-Big 12 in each of the last three years. He made 48 starts at left tackle, left guard and right guard and allowed just nine total pressures last season, per Pro Football Focus.
Beebe is elite in pass protection, but Cowboys fans are equally (if not more) excited for what he'll bring to the running game. If he starts at center like expected, he'll represent a weighty upgrade over Tyler Biadasz. The former Wildcat is one of the best picks of the draft regardless of team. An A+ is fitting.