Dallas Cowboys Draft: What to expect from the 2021 NFL Draft

The 2021 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a difficult one to predict for Dallas Cowboys fans

This is not a Dallas Cowboys tank article, but rather, a better understanding of what this draft is looking like regardless of where the Cowboys pick. There are some needs the Cowboys will certainly have heading into 2021, and this draft is not exactly prime for those positions. We could argue whether the Cowboys need to stay put and pick, or try to trade down, but the players in this draft are not changing. That is the picture that needs to be painted.

First, let’s look at some of the needs for the Dallas Cowboys for next season. We will assume they will keep Dak Prescott, so that takes quarterback off the list. We will also assume they like some of the guys better than some of the fans, which might take some positions and lower the priority. Either way, the needs are still there, just the importance may not be as high as many think.

On offense, there is not much the Cowboys really need. We are again assuming they keep all three wide receivers and Blake Jarwin returns healthy. That really leaves the offensive line needing some help. Without knowing the health of Tyron Smith or La’el Collins, offensive tackle could be a bigger need. Guard is another position that has been up and down this season. With Zack Martin returning one guard position is locked up. Tyler Biadasz appears to be the answer at center, so one tackle and one guard might be the most the Cowboys could be in the market for. Depth is always something that is needed and 2020 has shown just how important it really is.

Now that we have set some of the needs, you may notice this draft is not lining up well for the Cowboys.

The defensive side of the ball is a completely different story than the offense. If the Cowboys do not keep Chidobe Awuzie they could be in the market for at least two corners. We all know the need at safety and defensive tackle.

If Sean Lee retires, then linebacker may move up in priority, however, if we are to believe Jerry and Stephen Jones, it may not be the need we all think it is. Edge has DeMarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory, but beyond them, the depth gets a little murky. Aldon Smith started well, but has disappeared for large stretches this season, but should be cheap to return at 32.

Now that we have set some of the needs, you may notice this draft is not lining up well for the Cowboys. After the top three picks, the rest of the draft is starting to be less impressive at many positions. Safety is underwhelming and there may not be a first-round talent among the group. The same can be said for defensive tackle and defensive end.

While linebacker has some talent and depth, being a less premier position, does not hold the value to spend a first-round pick. It would probably also send Cowboys Nation into a frenzy. Corner has some top-end talent, but comparing them to past drafts, it is thinner than it appears. The top guys in 2021, may not be top guys in other years.