Cowboys show interest in versatile lineman with NFL caliber coaching

Over the past two seasons, the Dallas Cowboys have seen some big changes on their offensive line. In 2024, they had to replace Tyron Smith at left tackle and Tyler Biadasz at center.

More change is coming in 2025, with Zack Martin retiring, leaving a hole at right guard. Dallas is expected to use Brock Hoffman to replace him, but that would also mean their bench isn't as deep.

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That's why it makes sense that they would be interested in Josh Carlin from UCLA. An experienced veteran, Carlin played at all five positions during his time with the Bruins, and said that versatility led to the Cowboys showing interest in him during the pre-draft process.

.@UCLAFootball OL Josh Carlin appeared in 53 career games at T-G-C.

Met with #Cowboys, #Texans, #Colts at @TropicalBowlUSA.

"Those three teams knew a good bit about me. They like my versatility."@Carlin_Josh on @TheDraftNetwork:https://t.co/zELlzSMSFd
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) March 30, 2025

While speaking with Justin Melo of The Draft Network, he said Dallas (as well as the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts) seemed to know a good bit about him.

"I met with the Texans, Cowboys, and Colts at the Tropical Bowl. It was a fun process. Those three teams knew a good bit about me. They like my versatility and how that's the biggest aspect of my game. They appreciate that I’ve had some great coaches and how that played a role in my time at UCLA." — Carlin

UCLA Bruins offensive lineman Josh Carlin during a game against the Oregon Ducks at Rose Bowl | Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

They also appreciated the coaching he received during his time with the Bruins. That includes working with former NFL head coach Chip Kelly and former NFL offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.

Carlin said any team that drafts him will get a hard worker who will show up ready to get to work. That attitude and his versatility is exactly what makes him a prime candidate to be a key reserve — and well worth a Day 3 selection.

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