Dallas Cowboys’ Draft Strategy: Focus on Defense Amidst Struggles

The Dallas Cowboys find themselves unexpectedly focusing on the 2025 NFL Draft as injuries continue to plague their season. Nine players currently reside on injured reserve, including star linebacker Micah Parsons. «If the season ended today, Dallas would have the No. 11 overall pick,» stated a team insider. The team’s difficult upcoming schedule gives them a chance to advance, but the roster’s numerous gaps require strategic planning in the draft.

Discussions have centered around potential improvements in the draft, particularly regarding defensive improvements. While positions like wide receiver and the offensive line require attention, Parsons advocates for bolstering the team’s defense. Notably, Parsons has expressed interest in three prospects, with one clear favorite: a standout pass rusher coming from Penn State, known simply as Carter.

Draft expert Dane Brugler has identified Carter as a top prospect, highlighting his abilities, saying, «Carter is an absolute blur off the edge and he’s dominating at Penn State, similar to Parsons in his college days.» Despite Carter’s current standing in the 8-15 range on most mock drafts, Brugler suggests he possesses the potential to be a top-three pick.

The Penn State phenom stands at 6-foot-3 and weighs 250 pounds, with a pass-rush win rate of 24.8% in 2023, placing him among the top performers in the FBS. Carter’s prowess has earned him a semifinalist position for the Chuck Bednarik Award, which honors the nation’s best defensive player.

Should the Cowboys wish to secure Carter, maintaining their current position in the standings would be crucial. The prospect of drafting an edge defender to pair with Parsons could be contentious among fans eager for offensive improvements. Yet, given Dallas’ struggling pass rush without Parsons, Carter might be their optimal choice.

Outside the field, Parsons has been vocal about the team’s management, utilizing social media to challenge owner Jerry Jones‘ strategy. While not naming Jones directly, Parsons’ latest remarks critique the allocation of resources, highlighting the significant contracts of Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb as symptomatic of a failed strategy.

The Cowboys’ defense has been underwhelming this season, ranking 29th in opponent yards per play. Injuries exacerbated their lack of depth and exposed management’s approach, leaving the defense weakened. As Parsons’ contract extension looms, his criticisms assume greater weight, pressing the Cowboys to reconsider their draft and salary cap strategies moving forward.