Cowboys Changes Could Force New Draft Strategy

Either way, much of the focus on the necessary improvements has centered on the offensive side with the need for another receiving threat and especially a running back. Most mock drafts are projecting the Cowboys take Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty at No. 12 overall or a highly touted receiver. 

But what if the Cowboys scratch that plan and look into an underlying defensive need? 

ESPN's Field Yates has released his post-Super Bowl mock draft, projecting that Dallas selects Michigan cornerback Will Johnson, citing concerns with some current pieces in the secondary. 

"Johnson would help fortify a Cowboys cornerback room that has plenty of questions as the offseason begins. Trevon Diggs is recovering from a knee injury that required surgery, DaRon Bland has only one year left on his rookie contract and Jourdan Lewis will be a free agent in March."

Diggs' injury is a valid concern given that his knee has sidelined him twice in the last two seasons. If Lewis leaves in free agency, the Cowboys could be looking at a secondary headlined by Bland on an expiring deal and Caelen Carson, who showed some promise in his first season but also comes off an injury. 

Snagging a player like Johnson alleviates some of those secondary concerns if they come to fruition. It would be a stunning yet sensible change in strategy. However moving on from Jeanty or a big name receiver may be too big of an ask here. 

Jeanty has all the makings of a star running back and the Cowboys must find a viable No. 2 option alongside CeeDee Lamb. There is enough depth in this class for Dallas to tackle both positions later in the draft. 

But if those stars shine bright enough, the Cowboys may find it difficult to look away.