Cowboys Three-Round Mock Draft: Dallas makes typical gamble in second round, lands productive fan favorite prospect in Round 3

The Dallas Cowboys were active in the first week of NFL free agency, adding 11 outside players via signings and trades. In the process, they took swings at four former first-round draft picks. 

However, their additions focused on depth. Most of their signings are likely going to miss the top of the depth chart, with maybe one or two having true starter potential. That means the Cowboys' need for starters at wide receiver, running back, and cornerback are still major needs heading into the NFL Draft. 

I kept that in mind when putting the below three-round mock draft, which I did with the help of the PFF Simulator for added realism. Let's dive in! 

Round 1, Pick 12: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri

With RB Ashton Jeanty and WR Tetairoa McMillan off the board, it comes down to Burden. The Cowboys' need for a number two receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb can't be understated. Adding Parris Campbell in free agency changes nothing. 

Burden is seen as a slot receiver prospect at 5-foot-11 but according to A to Z Sports' draft expert Destin Adams, he can be more than that: While Burden isn't the biggest WR, he is able to go up and high point the football at a high level, which opens up the possible routes he could win at the pro level. While he struggles against physical CBs at the line of scrimmage, he has shown the ability to excel in contested catch situations.

Round 2, Pick 44: CB Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina

You might not like this but it's true: Revel has Dallas Cowboy written all over him. The second round is where the front office gets that gambler's itch and when they feel the odds are on their side, they won't hesitate to risk a little.

Revel was considered a first-round prospect before going through ACL-related surgery last October. The doctor performing the surgery? Dr. Daniel Cooper, who has worked with the Cowboys for years. He was a key part of the Cowboys picking Jaylon Smith in 2016 and he was the one who recommended Damone Clark's fusion surgery in 2022. 

Revel is an athletic prospect the Cowboys can develop and he's expected to be ready to go for training camp. In the second round, he could be considered steal though it won't be without risk.