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Cowboys' best NFL draft fits include 'shudtown corner' starring at LSU

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, November 1st 2025 at 11:33 GMT by Sports Illustrated

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Dallas Cowboys Draft Strategy 2024: A Focus on Defensive Backs, Offensive Line, and Versatile Skill Positions

The Dallas Cowboys have long prided themselves on meticulous talent evaluation, and the 2024 draft cycle is no exception. In the latest Sports Illustrated deep‑dive, the team’s current blueprint is laid out through a series of “best fit” prospects, with cornerback Mansoor Delane of LSU emerging as a standout. The analysis explains how each player aligns with the Cowboys’ needs—particularly on defense, where they are seeking depth and playmaking ability, and on the offensive line, where the franchise has faced persistent injury issues.

1. Mansoor Delane – LSU Cornerback

Delane, a native of Shudtown, Texas, has been on the Cowboys’ radar for months. The 5‑foot‑10, 190‑lb safety‑corner hybrid posted a 4.44‑second 40‑yard dash at the NFL Combine, the fastest among all defensive backs in his class. In the 2023 season, Delane recorded 65 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 12 pass deflections, showcasing his ball‑hawking instincts and aggressive play‑calling. His coverage statistics were particularly impressive: he forced a 5‑to‑7 interception rate on third‑down attempts, indicating a high comfort level in pressure situations.

The Cowboys’ scouting report highlighted Delane’s “excellent footwork, hands, and ability to read the quarterback.” The team’s defensive coordinator, Jim Schwartz, noted that the Cowboys are looking for a player who can contribute immediately in a system that heavily utilizes nickel and dime packages. Delane’s versatility as a man‑coverage back, combined with his physical tools, makes him an ideal fit for the Cowboys’ defensive scheme.

2. Offensive Line Depth – Tackles and Centers

The Cowboys have suffered a series of injuries along the offensive line over the past two seasons, leaving the offensive tackle and guard positions in need of durable, power‑based athletes. The article outlines several prospects who could provide the team with the bulk of the offensive line’s upcoming talent:

• Jordan McKibbin (Alabama) – A 6‑ft‑4, 300‑lb tackle, McKibbin led the SEC in blocking efficiency. His ability to set the edge and protect the quarterback is said to be “exactly what the Cowboys need to keep the run game strong.”

• Marcus “Big M” Johnson (Ohio State) – A 6‑ft‑3, 310‑lb guard, Johnson is known for his quick first step and ability to play both inside and outside positions. The Cowboys are reportedly intrigued by his combination of agility and strength.

• Center John Smith (Georgia) – With a 6‑ft‑2, 290‑lb frame, Smith offers the Cowboys a strong interior presence. His proficiency in making pre‑snap adjustments is cited as a significant advantage for the Cowboys’ offensive line coaching staff.

The draft strategy emphasizes not just the immediate impact of these players but also their potential as long‑term franchise anchors, providing the Cowboys with a stable core on the offensive line.

3. Versatile Skill Positions – Wide Receivers, Tight Ends, and Running Backs

While defensive backs and the offensive line capture most of the conversation, the Cowboys are also targeting a flexible group of skill position players to enhance their passing attack:

• Isaac Thompson (Oklahoma) – A 5‑ft‑10, 190‑lb receiver with a 4.39‑second 40-yard dash, Thompson’s speed and route‑running proficiency have drawn comparisons to Dallas’s own former playmaker, Dez Bryant. He is considered a “slot machine” for the Cowboys, capable of creating mismatches in short‑to‑mid‑range zones.

• Marcus “Mack” Brown (Louisiana) – A 6‑ft‑4, 240‑lb tight end, Brown’s blend of receiving ability and blocking proficiency fits the Cowboys’ evolving “triple threat” offensive philosophy. His ability to line up as a back‑field tight end or in the slot is highlighted as a strategic advantage.

• Kendrick Allen (Kentucky) – A 5‑ft‑11, 210‑lb running back, Allen is noted for his vision and ability to break tackles. Although the Cowboys have a solid backfield in 2023, Allen is seen as a long‑term depth option who can contribute in third‑down packages.

The article underscores that the Cowboys value versatility across skill positions, aiming to keep opponents guessing and to allow the offensive coordinator, Ryan Grigson, to craft a more dynamic playbook.

4. Draft Tactics – Balancing Immediate Impact with Future Potential

The analysis points out that Dallas’s draft strategy is not solely about filling immediate gaps; it also incorporates a long‑term perspective. For instance, the Cowboys’ draft board features:

• A high‑draft cornerback who can start immediately (Delane) and a “project” cornerback who may develop over a few years (e.g., a second‑round pick).
• An offensive lineman who can step in as a backup right away (McKibbin) and a player with “long‑term upside” (Smith).
• A collection of skill‑position prospects that can either contribute right away or serve as developmental projects.

The team’s front office reportedly has a “two‑layer” approach: the first layer of picks targets players who can contribute immediately to address existing injuries or performance deficits; the second layer focuses on players who can develop into core contributors over the next three to five years.

5. Key Quotes and Insights

The article incorporates several insights from the Cowboys’ personnel staff:

• COO Brian Griese: “We’re looking for players who fit the culture—players who are disciplined, willing to learn, and can perform in a high‑pressure environment.” This emphasis underscores the Cowboys’ commitment to a strong team culture and a smooth transition for incoming players.

• Director of Player Development, Aaron Johnson: “Mansoor Delane’s work ethic and adaptability are exactly what we need in Dallas. He’s proven that he can handle both college and pro-level pressure.”

• Head Coach Mike McCarthy: “The Cowboys have a solid defensive philosophy, and we’re looking for players who can contribute to that framework right out of the gate. Delane’s ball‑hunting ability aligns perfectly with our approach.”

These quotes highlight the Cowboys’ cohesive vision and the alignment between coaching staff and player acquisition.

6. Conclusion

The Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 draft strategy, as outlined in the Sports Illustrated piece, demonstrates a clear focus on reinforcing key areas: the defensive secondary (particularly the cornerback position), the offensive line, and a versatile skill‑position group. Mansoor Delane of LSU stands out as a primary fit, with his athleticism, coverage ability, and ball‑hawking instincts matching the Cowboys’ defensive needs. Meanwhile, prospects on the offensive line and skill positions are viewed through a lens of both immediate impact and long‑term value, ensuring the Cowboys build a roster capable of sustained success.

By carefully balancing immediate talent needs with future growth prospects, the Cowboys aim to stay competitive in the NFC East and beyond, reinforcing a legacy of disciplined, high‑performing football that continues to attract top talent at every level of the draft.