Dallas Cowboys followed interesting theme in 2022 NFL Draft

The Dallas Cowboys added potential contributors at multiple different positions in the 2022 NFL Draft. From offensive line to pass rusher, Dallas identified talent at areas of need on the roster. Dallas addressed its three biggest needs with its first three picks in the draft: offensive line, defensive line, and wide receiver. Tyler Smith is […]

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Dallas Cowboys
Feb 1, 2022; Mobile, AL, USA; American defensive lineman John Ridgeway of Arkansas (98) and American offensive lineman Darian Kinnard of Kentucky (65) battle during American practice for the 2022 Senior Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys added potential contributors at multiple different positions in the 2022 NFL Draft. From offensive line to pass rusher, Dallas identified talent at areas of need on the roster.

Dallas addressed its three biggest needs with its first three picks in the draft: offensive line, defensive line, and wide receiver. Tyler Smith is a toolsy run blocker with upside. De Williams is a speedy pass rusher. Jalen Tolbert is a fluid receiver.

Throughout the draft, at least outside of the first two rounds, the Dallas Cowboys followed a theme. Dallas put an emphasis on adding veteran, athletic talent to the roster.

The Cowboys drafted multiple Senior Bowl prospects.

Dallas added multiple players that played in the 2022 Senior Bowl. That list includes prospects such as Tolbert, tight end Jake Ferguson, offensive tackle Matt Waletzko, and defensive tackle John Ridgeway.

The Cowboys also drafted LSU linebacker Damone Clark in the fifth-round. Clark, who played in the Senior Bowl, was considered a top-flight prospect prior to undergoing spinal fusion surgery in the pre-draft process. Dallas is hoping the late-round gamble pays off on the former SEC star.

Will McClay, the team's VP of Player Personnel, and the Cowboys have prioritized drafting Senior Bowl players over the years. Dallas has selected more than 20 such prospects since the 2014 draft.

Notable players on the Cowboys roster that played in the Senior Bowl include:

  • Dak Prescott
  • Michael Gallup
  • Tony Pollard
  • Jourdan Lewis
  • Osa Odighizuwa

Dallas has become one of the best drafting organizations over the years, which has included taking Senior Bowl standouts. Therefore, it makes a lot of sense to continue to follow this strategy.

Featured image via Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

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