2024 Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft: Fixing Problem Areas

87th Overall (Jeremiah Trotter, Jr, LB, Clemson)

The irony of drafting the son of a former rival cannot go unnoticed. Yet, the younger Trotter plays the game differently than his father. With outstanding coverage ability mixed with pursuit and blitzing capability, the Sons of Landry can employ a linebacker that can handle every task assigned and succeed. Versus the run, Trotter loves to maintain gap integrity, flying through gaps to make the stop. Most importantly, you saw marked improvement every season at Clemson.

127th Overall (Maason Smith, DL, LSU)

In football, the best ability is availability. For Maason Smith, his versatility should immediately pay dividends. For example, the former LSU lineman can play every position along a defensive line, regardless of odd or even front. From lining up a zero over the center, or a nine sitting on the outside shoulder of a tight end, Smith generates pressure. With a taller frame that possesses power and a good first step, the Cowboys can use him in any situation. As DeMarcus Lawrence plays out his contract, , spotting the former Tiger at end does not feel that far out of the realm of possibility.

174th Overall (Nick Gargiulo, OL, South Carolina)

Once upon a time, the Dallas Cowboys boasted the best and highest-paid offensive line. Pro Bowlers up and down the line. Most importantly, those players were durable. The need for depth never really surfaced. Now, the need for reserves makes its appearance. Gargiulo, the former Gamecock/Yale Bulldog brings good footwork, and spatial blocking ability to the fold. Granted, he may never see a starting spot, but athletically, he can spot start and that’s what you want from a Day Three pick.

216th Overall (Cedric Johnson, EDGE, Mississippi)

Micah Parsons should not handle the pass rush burden alone. Teams attempt to double, even triple him occasionally. No other Dallas EDGE gets home with consistent regularity. With that said, a player like Cedric Johnson from Ole Miss could serve as a pass rush specialist. Nothing fancy. The Cowboys could deploy him in passing situation to use his strength/speed mix to generate pressure. At this point, Johnson is a moldable commodity that can benefit from a teaching approach from a position coach.

233rd Overall (Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy)

At this point in the draft, Dallas needs to round the roster out with athletes. As a result, former Troy back fits the bill. While not the largest player, Vidal brings a second and third gear out of the backfield. 4700 yards from scrimmage and 34 touchdowns, including 92 receptions cannot be understated. On third downs, the Cowboys can definitely is someone to win against coverage when the receivers are covered.

244th Overall (Willie Drew, CB, Virginia State)

Regardless of level, eleven interceptions in two season is intriguing. So-called draft experts want to diminish Drew’s apparent ball skills. For the bargain of a seventh-round pick, Dallas could bring in a playmaker that isn’t afraid of the big play. Also, blessed with good size and leaping ability, Drew could very well lock down a backup job in camp. If you look at the back of the Cowboys’ depth chart in the secondary, they could use another playmaker. For now, Drew should start on specials.