An offseason of uncertainty likely awaits the Dallas Cowboys. That means it’s time to look at new weapons they could add to their roster.
On Tuesday, NFL draft analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic released his second 2024 mock draft. In a future-focused breakdown of the event’s first two rounds, Brugler had the Cowboys taking prospects from area colleges with the 24th and 56th overall picks.
In the first round, Dallas would emphasize the trenches by selecting Oklahoma offensive tackle Tyler Guyton. The Cowboys secured the No. 24 selection after a demoralizing 48-32 wild card loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Guyton wouldn’t be the first offensive lineman taken by Dallas at No. 24, as they selected Tyler Smith with the pick in 2022.
“After the loss to the Packers, I’m sure Cowboys fans were expecting to see a defensive player here. But Tyron Smith might leave in free agency, and if Dallas keeps Tyler Smith at left guard, left tackle shoots to the top of the needs list,” Brugler said in his latest mock draft. “Based on his raw traits, Guyton could go much earlier than this.”
With their second-round pick, the Cowboys would take a risk on an injured Texas star. Brugler had Dallas taking Longhorns running back Jonathon Brooks.
The running back took over as Texas’ starter following Bijan Robinson’s departure to the NFL in 2023. Before suffering a season-ending ACL injury in November, Brooks put together a productive campaign that included 1,139 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns on the ground.
According to Brugler, Cowboys team physician Dr. Dan Cooper performed Brooks’ surgery after his injury.
“This pick makes too much sense. With Tony Pollard a pending free agent, running back could be a need for Dallas. And even though Brooks tore his ACL in November, the Cowboys have never shied from taking risks, especially in the second round,” Brugler said. “Brooks was expected to be RB1 before his injury and still has a chance to be the first back off the board.”
The Cowboys are expected to have five picks in the 2024 draft. Team officials are also projecting two compensatory draft picks, which are determined by free agents lost the previous season.
This year’s draft will take place from April 25-27 at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza in Detroit.
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