Dallas Cowboys Weigh Draft-Day Flexibility with Two First-Round Picks
"The organization prefers receiving incoming calls rather than initiating them, describing the results as typically better under that approach." — Jerry Jones
The Dallas Cowboys enter the upcoming NFL Draft with significant strategic flexibility, holding two first-round selections (No. 12 and No. 20) and a mandate to address a defense that allowed a franchise-record 511 points last season.
Current Draft Assets
The Cowboys possess eight total picks in the draft, but they do not have a second-round selection, which was previously traded to the New York Jets as part of the acquisition of defensive tackle Quinnen Williams.
Trade Strategy and Considerations
Jerry Jones has confirmed that the organization has received inquiries from other teams regarding potential trades and is open to various scenarios. The team is considering all potential maneuvers before and during the draft, including:
- Moving up in the order
- Moving down to acquire additional picks
- Trading for future draft assets or players
Stephen Jones, executive vice president, added that there is "nothing concrete" regarding any trade talks currently.
A notable gap exists in the Cowboys' draft board. Their next pick after No. 20 is not until No. 92, late in the third round. One potential strategy under consideration is trading down from a first-round pick to acquire a selection in the second or third round, thereby bridging this gap.
"Having multiple first-round picks provides more options and flexibility." — Jerry Jones
Team Context and Priorities
The Cowboys' defense allowed a franchise-record 511 points during the previous season. The team is preparing for the draft with an emphasis on maximizing the value of its current draft capital to address roster needs.