The Dallas Cowboys had only one pick after the fifth round of the NFL draft, using the No. 218 overall selection on receiver Anthony Smith. For the Cowboys, it should be considered a win to find any piece this late in the draft capable of making a talented roster. Smith not only has this chance, but could have a clear runway to becoming a contributor. It is important to note that this in no way suggests the pass catcher is a threat to the current starting lineup. Instead, it is an argument that Smith could contribute in other ways.
CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Ryan Flournoy are locked into place, with Smith fighting for one of the remaining depth roles. The Cowboys currently have Parris Campbell, Jonathan Mingo, Smith, and Traeshon Holden contending for the remaining spots on the Dallas depth chart. None of these players is considered a lock for the roster or playing on high-dollar deals.
Dallas drafted Smith, understanding the elite speed the East Carolina product offers and the wild-card he could become in the Cowboys' offense. It is completely on the table that the rookie finds a way to become the team's fourth or fifth option at the position.
Smith had 1,852 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns in his final two college seasons, consistently flashing elite speed that should translate to the next level. For Dallas, this was an undervalued pick who could be given a chance to fight for a meaningful role within the Dallas offense.
Cowboys Make Underrated Pick in Anthony Smith with Final Selection
It is telling as well that the Cowboys used their team's final pick to draft a receiver since the offseason has been focused on rebuilding the defense. There wasn't a willingness to risk the pass catcher being drafted by another team, with a clear possibility that Smith would become an option as an undrafted free agent signing.
Instead, the Cowboys went ahead and drafted the pass catcher who is now clearly set up to contend for a spot behind the current trio of starters. It should be noted here as well that Smith is slightly built at 6'2 185 pounds, raising concerns over how the speedster will hold up against NFL-level punishment.
This is the only obvious issue the Cowboys could face with Smith's speed, leaving a clear path to making the team's final roster. Even if the pass catcher doesn't prove to be an elite depth option, Dallas hasn't been shy about utilizing speed options in unique ways. Having Smith as a jet sweep option or serving in a special teams role are both avenues that could provide value. Regardless of the role, it is clear that Smith has a unique opportunity ahead.
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