Cowboys Miss Opportunity to Draft Key Receivers, Seek Free Agent Help

FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys faced a disappointing draft on April 28, 2025, failing to secure a No. 2 wide receiver as they had hoped. Despite strong interest in Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan, the Carolina Panthers selected him four picks ahead of Dallas.

ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that the Cowboys had engaged in discussions with an AFC North team about a potential trade for a wide receiver, possibly George Pickens. However, the negotiations fell through as the draft commenced.

With no receivers added during the draft, the Cowboys are left needing a veteran presence at the position. Nick Harris from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram mentioned there is interest in potentially bringing back Amari Cooper, who is currently a free agent. Dallas traded Cooper to the Cleveland Browns in 2022 after he recorded 292 receptions for 3,893 yards and 27 touchdowns during his time with the team.

In the draft, the Cowboys made nine selections, focusing on the highest-rated players available. They fortified their offensive and defensive lines and added depth in linebacker, but their wide receiver situation remains unresolved.

The decision to pass on wide receivers came despite a noticeable gap in that position. If McMillan had fallen to Dallas at the No. 12 pick, sources say he would have been their choice instead of Alabama’s Tyler Booker.

Even with their focus on other positions, the Cowboys did manage to draft two running backs, acknowledging the depth in that class. They selected Ezeiruaku, a pass rusher, and Revel, a cornerback, in the earlier rounds.

Executive Vice President Stephen Jones emphasized the ongoing commitment to improving the team, stating, ‘We’ll continue to always look to improve our football team.’ With approximately $37 million in salary cap space, the Cowboys have the financial flexibility to bring in talent.

Owner Jerry Jones previously mentioned ongoing discussions about ‘substantive trades’ regarding players, which could occur before or after the draft. As the top free agent receivers are still available, the Cowboys will need to act quickly to fill their roster gaps.