Could the Cowboys Trade Out of the First Round Completely?
The Dallas Cowboys have options heading into the start of the 2024 NFL Draft, beginning Thursday evening in Detroit.
The 2024 NFL Draft presents a critical juncture for the Dallas Cowboys. With a multitude of roster needs and only a limited number of premium picks, the Cowboys face a challenging task. One strategy they might consider is trading out of the first round altogether. Let’s explore the reasons behind this potential move:
Roster Holes and Priorities
The Dallas Cowboys enter the draft with several glaring holes on their roster. The three most significant areas of concern are:
1. Center: The Cowboys need a reliable anchor in the middle of their offensive line. Tyler Biadasz, their starting center for the past four seasons, signed with the Washington Commanders this offseason. They don’t have many viable options currently on their roster
2. Tackle: With Tyron Smith signing with the New York Jets, Dallas has their hands full to try and replace him. Unless they consider moving Tyler Smith to tackle, they have an obvious void to fill on Prescott’s blindside.
3. Running Back: With Tony Pollard gone and only Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn and Royce Freeman on the roster, they’ll certainly be eyeing a running back early in the draft.
Targeting Graham Barton
One player the Cowboys could be eyeing is Duke center Graham Barton. If he’s available when Dallas is on the clock, he would be an excellent addition. However, if Barton is selected before their pick, the Cowboys might reconsider their approach. Rather than reaching for another center that might be lower on their board, they could opt to trade back and accumulate more draft capital.
While offensive tackles are on their radar, the Cowboys also recognize the importance of a solid center. If the top tackles are off the board and Barton isn’t within reach, they’ll pivot. Trading back becomes an attractive option, allowing them to address multiple needs later in the draft.
