Did Cowboys' Loss Reveal 3 Biggest NFL Draft Needs?
While it is still early, as the Dallas Cowboys have three games left in the regular season, it can never be too soon to start looking ahead at the offseason and, specifically, the NFL Draft.
As with every offseason, the Cowboys will certainly have "needs" to fill throughout their roster, and the draft will certainly provide them with an opportunity to build on an already talented roster. But what positions do we foresee the Cowboys needing to invest time and resources into improving?
Inside Linebacker
Dec 17, 2023; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills running back James Cook (4) runs the ball in for a touch down in the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at Highmark Stadium.
Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Following the 31-10 butt-whooping handed to the Cowboys via the Buffalo Bills, the need at linebacker has never looked more pressing. Without former first-round pick Leighton Vander Esch, who is dealing with yet another neck injury, the Cowboys have looked to fill his void with a committee approach.
Mainly, though, the Cowboys have turned to converted safety Markquese Bell to play alongside second-year linebacker Damone Clark. While Bell's play has proven serviceable for the Cowboys this season, even with him being undersized at 205 pounds, the Bills found success targeting him in their run game.
Without Vander Esch, the Cowboys have been left without a true "MIKE" linebacker who can hold up in coverage while taking on linemen and getting off blocks consistently against the run.
Offensive Tackle
This may not be a pressing need if Tyron Smith remains healthy and keeps playing like he has been for the Cowboys this season. However, the Cowboys could begin searching for his replacement, with the eight-time Pro Bowler potentially nearing retirement at 33 years old and an injury record that has grown recently.
Now, that is if former first-round pick Tyler Smith's move to left guard is deemed permanent after this season. If not, then Tyron's replacement is already on the roster.
Defensive Tackle
Of the two needs above, this may be the least pressing, considering the Cowboys just invested in the interior of their defensive line last offseason with the selection of Mazi Smith in the first round. Yet, with Johnathan Hankins' contract set to expire this offseason, the Cowboys could find themselves back in the market for a run-stuffing interior lineman.
Adding another one through the draft doesn't mean giving up faith in Smith, as one season isn't enough time for the former Michigan Wolverine to turn into the player they hope he will be. However, without Hankins in the room, the Cowboys' depth at nose tackle will be slimmed.
