2025 Cowboys Post-Combine Three-Round Mock Draft: Dallas lands gem on meteoric rise even though fan favorites are wiped out at No. 12
As every year, the NFL Scouting Combine gives us a before and after outlook of the upcoming Draft. For the Dallas Cowboys, it’s been an interesting one. Before the so-called underwear Olympics in Indianapolis, most had America’s Team linked to Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. But since then, Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan has become […]
As every year, the NFL Scouting Combine gives us a before and after outlook of the upcoming Draft.
For the Dallas Cowboys, it’s been an interesting one. Before the so-called underwear Olympics in Indianapolis, most had America’s Team linked to Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. But since then, Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan has become one of the favorites for the No. 12 overall pick.
On the Monday following the Combine, both ESPN and The Athletic predicted McMillan to Dallas.
Well, what if neither is there? That scenario came up in my post-Combine mock draft, in which I used PFF’s mock draft simulator for added realism. Let’s dive in.
Round 1, Pick 12: WR Matthew Golden, Texas
I don’t think we should underestimate the Cowboys’ need for a wide receiver going into the 2025 NFL season. Paired with Golden’s rise after a strong Combine, you can expect him to be in the mix.
According to many insiders, Golden is rising as a first round prospect after running a remarkable 40-yard dash in which he outperformed his Longhorns teammates (and everyone at the Combine at it) with a blazing 4.29.
A to Z Sports' own college football expert Ian Valentino wrote about Golden's profile after his big day in Indy:
With nearly 70% of his targets converted, Golden showcased his versatility, smooth route-running skills, after-the-catch abilities, speed, and reliability in contested situations. He represents a high-value asset who can make immediate contributions to any offense.
Golden's exceptional route-running and ability to generate separation are rooted in his excellent footwork and meticulous attention to detail. His nuanced movements enhance his athleticism. He has shown explosiveness in his gameplay, recording 26 forced missed tackles against only 14 drops over 202 targets throughout three seasons.
His reliability and productivity have remained consistent regardless of his role or the offensive scheme, and his time at Texas saw him operating out of the slot more frequently than before.
Round 2, Pick 44: CB Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky
Someone beat Golden in the 40-yard dash and that was Hairston, who formally met with the Cowboys at the Combine. He's a long cornerback, which Dallas has consistently valued in the past. Hairston can play man coverage at a high level and has ball skills to become a playmaker.
With Trevon Diggs fighting back from injury, the Cowboys get much-needed depth here.
Round 3, Pick 74: LB Barrett Carter, Clemson
One of the biggest takeaways from the NFL Scouting Combine for me was it seems the Cowboys are really interested in looking into a linebacker. Perhaps that has to do with DeMarvion Overshown going through rehab. Though it's going well, his availability will be in question to start the season. Dals met formally with many Day 2 prospects at linebacker and in this scenario, Carter was the best available.
Carter started three years on Clemson's dominant defenses.
NFL star is unlikely to get what he reportedly wants and the Dallas Cowboys should take advantage of it
It’s time to be aggressive.
