Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images

Cowboys No. 1 Offensive Need in NFL Draft Made Perfectly Clear

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Apr 11, 2025 8:12 AM ET

The Dallas Cowboys' offseason has seen a defensive theme emerge, with Matt Eberflus' unit benefiting from several free agent signings.

But Brian Schottenheimer's offense? Just a handful with Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, Parris Campbell, and Robert Jones coming to The Star.

With that in mind, it does seem rather obvious where the Cowboys will begin their 2025 draft haul and its offense. But with receiver and running back needing to be urgently taken care of, which way should the franchise go?

"The Cowboys have been open about needing an explosive receiver opposite CeeDee Lamb, with Matthew Golden (Texas) being heavily linked to them at the No. 12 pick," ESPN's Jordan Reid writes. "Running back is also a need for Dallas. While there has been talk about the Cowboys taking Omarion Hampton (North Carolina) at No. 12, it seems more likely they'll use their second-round pick on a runner. The team has expressed interest in Ohio State running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins in that spot."

Receiver feels like the spot where the Cowboys will go in the first round, such is the depth of the running back class.

Tetairoa McMillan, Matthew Golden, Luther Burden III, and Emeka Egbuka have all been linked with the Cowboys at No. 12 as the need to get CeeDee Lamb help is clear.

Exactly which of that quartet will come to The Star is unknown, but for most, a receiver, and even an offensive lineman, is the play in round one, with the Cowboys able to pick up really good running back options in the later rounds.

As we know, just because a receiver "feels" like the way Dallas should go early, it doesn't mean it will, but with the offense being Lamb or bust in 2024, we would be rather surprised if a receiver didn't hear his name in the first round.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: