The Dallas Cowboys came into the draft needing to address woes on the offensive and defensive line, and they came out of the draft in a better position than they came in.
The Cowboys entered the draft with a clear mission: fortify the trenches, add depth across key positions, and lay the groundwork for a more physical and resilient roster under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
With nine selections from the first to the seventh round, Dallas emphasized immediate impact and long-term development.​
Round 1, Pick 12 – Tyler Booker, OG, Alabama
Booker, a standout at Alabama, is projected to fill the void left by the retired Zack Martin. Known for his intelligence and run-blocking prowess, Booker aims to solidify the interior offensive line and provide enhanced protection for quarterback Dak Prescott. ​
Round 2, Pick 44 – Donovan Ezeiruaku, DE, Boston College
Ezeiruaku brings a high motor and impressive pass-rushing capabilities. While there are concerns about his run defense, his potential to pressure opposing quarterbacks adds valuable depth to the defensive end rotation. ​
Round 3, Pick 76 – Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina
Despite a torn ACL that ended his 2024 season, Revel was a standout at ECU, earning second-team All-AAC honors. He is expected to begin training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list but is anticipated to make a full recovery. ​
Round 5, Pick 149 – Jaydon Blue, RB, Texas
A local talent from Klein Cain High School, Blue amassed over 1,000 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns in 2024. His speed and receiving skills make him a versatile addition to the backfield. ​
Round 5, Pick 152 – Shemar James, LB, Florida
James offers strong instincts and pass-rushing abilities. His versatility and athleticism are expected to complement new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’s aggressive schemes. ​
Round 6, Pick 204 – Ajani Cornelius, OL, Oregon
Cornelius, with experience at right tackle, is known for his physical style of play. While he may need development, his versatility allows for potential contributions at multiple positions along the offensive line. ​
Round 7, Pick 217 – Jay Toia, DT, UCLA
A former rugby player, Toia is praised for his run-stopping skills and physicality. He adds depth to the defensive tackle position and aligns with the team’s emphasis on increasing competition along the defensive line. ​
Round 7, Pick 239 – Phil Mafah, RB, Clemson
Mafah is recognized for his hard, physical running style. While he may have limited agility and receiving ability, his toughness could make him a valuable contributor on special teams and in short-yardage situations. ​
Round 7, Pick 247 – Tommy Akingbesote, DT, Maryland
Akingbesote adds further depth to the defensive tackle rotation. His selection underscores the Cowboys’ commitment to strengthening the interior defensive line. ​
The Cowboys’ 2025 draft strategy focused on reinforcing the trenches and adding versatile players to key positions.
While they did not address the wide receiver position during the draft, the team may explore trades or free-agent signings to bolster that area.
Overall, the draft class is viewed as a solid effort to build depth and address critical needs on both sides of the ball. ​
In addition to their draft picks, Dallas signed several undrafted free agents, including Kentucky DB Zion Childress, Oregon WR Traeshon Holden, and Auburn TE Rivaldo Fairweather.
Historically, the Cowboys have found significant contributors among undrafted players, such as Tony Romo and Terence Steele. ​