Cowboys Draft Picks Show Rising Impact Across Offense, Defense

The Dallas Cowboys selected guard Tyler Booker from Alabama with the 14th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, praised for his pass-blocking skills but criticized for penalties, lack of lower-body athleticism, and run-blocking deficiencies, indicating he will need development to match the impact of retired guard Zack Martin. Despite Booker's selection, several later-round Cowboys draft picks are expected to outperform him, with the team investing in a multi-back rushing system featuring Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders after losing Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle. On defense, linebacker Damone Clark is having his best NFL camp under coach Matt Eberflus, showing renewed confidence and improved play after struggling under a previous scheme. The Cowboys also addressed the defensive end position by drafting Donovan Ezeiruaku, who has impressed in training camp and could quickly become a starter, providing depth alongside veterans Dante Fowler and Payton Turner. However, the Cowboys' running back situation remains a concern, with projections suggesting they may target a running back early in the 2026 draft to bolster their rushing attack. Overall, the Cowboys show promise on defense and have made strategic moves to improve their offense, but some key positions still require further strengthening.