Cowboys add former five-star tackle recruit in latest mock draft
ESPN’s Louis Riddick thinks Tennessee’s Darnell Wright may be the best athlete in the 2023 NFL Draft and according to another NFL expert, the Cowboys are going to get him.
Per the latest mock draft from Will Brinson of CBS Sports, the Cowboys will take Wright with the 26th pick. Wright spent most of his time at right tackle with Tennessee but made 13 starts at left tackle and two at right guard as a Volunteer.
At 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, Wright has the size needed to contend with NFL defenders and enough athleticism to handle speedier edge rushers. He also demonstrates a mean streak on rushing downs, playing through the whistle and finishing blocks on the second level.
Wright was a big reason for Tennessee's success in 2022, but even after allowing zero sacks and earning first-team All-SEC honors, many didn’t consider him a first-round talent until the Reese’s Senior Bowl.
Prior to the game, Wright’s defensive teammates voted him the Offensive Line Practice Player of the Week. During the game, he outperformed a roster full of highly-rated pass rushers.
Following the game, Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy told Nashville’s 104.5 The Zone that ‘Darnell Wright made some money today.’
Of course, Wright has some things to work on. His lateral quickness isn’t great and he needs to get better with his hands. His balance needs improvement, but these issues are fairly common for young linemen, even ones from the SEC.
On paper, the Cowboys' offensive line is in pretty good shape. Zack Martin, Tyler Smith and Tyler Biadasz will all be back, but right tackle Terrence Steele is a restricted free agent and could be moved to guard next year.
After losing Connor Williams and Connor McGovern to free agency, adding a versatile player like Wright would allow Steele to play a swing role and help Dallas maintain one of the deepest lines in the NFL.
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