The Dallas Cowboys find themselves in an unfamiliar position as the 2024 NFL season winds down. At 5-7 and without quarterback Dak Prescott due to a season-ending hamstring injury, their playoff hopes to have all but faded. Defensive inconsistencies, a shaky running game, and a lack of depth on the offensive line and receiving corps have plagued the Cowboys this season, far from the NFC East champions they were a year ago.
Instead, the conversation has shifted to the 2025 NFL Draft, where Dallas could be eyeing a top 10 pick if their struggles continue through the final five games. Here’s an early dive into a few elite NCAA prospects who could join "America’s Team" and help turn things around in 2025.
1. Travis Hunter (CB/WR, Colorado)
Travis Hunter, a two-way standout at Colorado, is one of the most intriguing prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. At 6'1" and 185 pounds, Hunter has showcased elite athleticism, versatility, and an impressive football IQ, playing over 1,000 combined snaps on offence and defence in 2023, despite missing three games. In 2024, he has put together a remarkable season on both sides of the field and is the current odds-on favourite to win the Heisman Trophy.
For the Cowboys, Hunter could fill multiple needs. If deployed at cornerback, he could form a fearsome duo with Trevon Diggs, while his offensive skills could spark the receiving crops. Plus, adding Hunter would not only bolster Dallas’ roster but also bring a level of excitement reminiscent of the "Prime Time" era under Sanders' influence.
2. Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State)
Ashton Jeanty, a dynamic junior running back from Boise State, is one of the most electrifying players in college football. Standing at 5'9" and 215 pounds, Jeanty combines powerful downhill running with exceptional speed and agility, making him a versatile offensive weapon. In 2024, he has already amassed over 2,100 scrimmage yards and 28 total touchdowns, averaging a staggering 7.5 yards per carry and on pace to potentially break Barry Sanders’ college rushing record.
For the Dallas Cowboys, Jeanty could be an ideal fit, addressing their struggling ground game, which currently ranks 31st in the league. Drafting Jeanty could give the Cowboys a foundational backfield presence, alleviating pressure on their passing game and providing balance to their offensive scheme.
3. Kelvin Banks Jr. (OT, Texas)
A former five-star recruit from Humble, Texas, Banks has been an anchor on the Longhorns' offensive line since his freshman season. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 320 pounds, he combines raw power, athleticism, and technical ability to dominate in both pass protection and run blocking. These traits have made him a cornerstone of Texas' offensive success and a finalist for the 2024 Lombardi Award, given to the best lineman in the NCAA.
For the Cowboys, Banks would be a natural fit to bolster their offensive line, especially with the team still struggling to replace long-time o Bowl tackle, Tyron Smith. With Dallas prioritizing protecting their quarterback and establishing a run game, Banks' skill set would address both needs. His profile also mirrors the athletic, versatile linemen that Dallas has typically favoured in the past.
4. James Pearce Jr. (EDGE, Tennessee)
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 243 pounds, Pearce has emerged as one of the most dominant passers-by in college football. After a breakout sophomore season in 2023, where he recorded 9.5 sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles, Pearce solidified himself as a dynamic pass-rushing threat capable of disrupting opposing quarterbacks at a high level. This season, he has only continued to evolve for the Volunteers, with 7.5 sacks through 9 games, making him a semifinalist for the 2024 Walter Camp Player of the Year.
Pearce's explosive first step and ability to bend around the edge make him a prototypical fit for teams that prioritize attacking quarterbacks. For the Cowboys, his raw pass-rush ability would complement their defensive schemes, and the star play of their cornerstone All-Pro Micah Parsons.
How Many Picks Do the Cowboys Have in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Dallas Cowboys currently have 5 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, barring any trades or compensatory selections. Their expected draft capital includes the following:
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Round 1
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Round 2
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Round 3
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Round 5
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Round 6
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Round 7 (from CAR)
What are the Odds for Dallas Cowboys to Get the 1st Pick?
Although the betting odds for Dallas to land the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft are not listed yet, they are unlikely to be in contention. The Giants, Jaguars, Patriots, Titans, Raiders, Browns, Panthers, Jets and Bears currently all have worse records than the Cowboys and are expected to pick ahead of Dallas. So, if the team wishes to pursue the first overall pick, they will likely need to engage in significant trade negotiations closer to the draft.
For fans or bettors keen on these odds, tracking updates from sportsbooks closer to the offseason is essential. Additionally, if you’re someone interested in placing wagers on the 2025 NFL Draft, using promotional offers like free bets is a smart way to explore draft-related markets without significant risk. These bets could be applied to speculative markets closer to draft day, such as odds for Dallas trading into the first pick or selecting a specific player.
Conclusion
By targeting these prospects, the Cowboys could address key needs while positioning themselves for sustained success. Whether looking for foundational linemen, offensive firepower, or defensive disruptors, Dallas’s draft approach will hinge on its ability to capitalize on this talent-rich class.
