Cowboys Insider's Unexpected NFL Draft Prospect List

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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Under-the-Radar Defensive Gems

The Cowboys' defense, while showing flashes of brilliance, needs consistent improvement. This insider's list focuses on overlooked defensive players with the potential to become key contributors.

Small-School Standouts: Unearthing NFL Draft Sleepers

Smaller colleges often house hidden gems – players brimming with talent but lacking the spotlight of major programs. These NFL Draft sleepers are precisely the type of underrated talent the Cowboys need to consider:

• Devonte Wyatt (DL, Coastal Carolina): Possesses explosive power and relentless pursuit. A high-motor player who can disrupt the backfield. A potential late-round value pick.
• Troy Andersen (LB, Montana State): An athletic linebacker with impressive coverage skills and tackling ability. Could offer immediate linebacker depth and contribute on special teams. A true sleeper pick.
• James Houston (EDGE, Jackson State): Though a smaller school player, Houston's production speaks for itself. His incredible sack numbers make him a high-reward, high-risk prospect. Could develop into a high-impact edge rusher.

Positional Needs Filled Unexpectedly: Addressing Defensive Line and Linebacker Depth

These under-the-radar prospects directly address crucial Cowboys' needs:

• Wyatt's power and athleticism would provide much-needed depth on the defensive line, boosting the pass rush.
• Andersen's versatility gives the Cowboys additional linebacker depth, providing coverage and run support.
• Houston offers an exciting upside as a potential edge rusher, adding much-needed pass-rushing talent.

Offensive Surprises: Beyond the Usual Suspects

While the Cowboys offense boasts star power, adding versatile and impactful players through the draft remains vital. This list features offensive players often absent from typical Cowboys draft predictions.

Versatile Offensive Weapons: Finding Playmakers in the Draft

This section spotlights players with diverse skill sets who can contribute in multiple ways:

• Ty Chandler (RB, North Carolina): A dual-threat back with impressive receiving skills – offering offensive versatility out of the backfield. A potential late-round steal.
• Jalin Hyatt (WR, Tennessee): While not a completely "under-the-radar" prospect, Hyatt could be available later in the draft than many project. His speed offers a unique element of offensive versatility.
• Israel Abanikanda (RB, Pitt): Abanikanda is a powerful runner with surprising receiving skills, giving him the potential to be a dynamic dual-threat and a valuable playmaker for the Cowboys.

Late-Round Potential Stars: Value Picks with High Up-Side

The later rounds of the draft are often where teams unearth hidden gems. These players could be value picks with significant potential:

• Chandler's ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver makes him an attractive late-round steal.
• Hyatt's explosive speed and big-play ability could make him a dangerous weapon, even if drafted in a later round.
• Abanikanda's punishing running style could make him a valuable asset for short-yardage and goal-line situations.

The Insider's Rationale: Why These Picks Make Sense

Our insider's selections aren't arbitrary; they're based on a deep understanding of the Cowboys' needs and schemes.

Scheme Fit and Potential: Aligning Talent with Strategy

These prospects seamlessly integrate into the Cowboys' existing strategies:

• Wyatt's aggressive style aligns perfectly with the Cowboys' defensive scheme, while Andersen's coverage skills complement the team's defensive approach.
• Chandler's versatility fits the Cowboys' offensive scheme, while Abanikanda's style adds a different dimension to the team's running game.
• Hyatt's speed and ability to make big plays could be a valuable addition to the Cowboys’ offensive arsenal.

Addressing Team Weaknesses: Building for the Future

These draft choices directly address weaknesses in the current roster:

• The additions of Wyatt and Houston significantly improve the team's pass rush.
• Andersen's and Chandler's versatility bolster the depth at their respective positions.
• Abanikanda and Hyatt provide explosive playmaking ability on offense. Improving the overall depth chart and future of the team.

Making Sense of the Unexpected: Your Cowboys Draft Preview

This Cowboys Insider's Unexpected NFL Draft Prospect List highlights players who could significantly impact the team's success. The insider's unique perspective emphasizes the importance of considering unconventional choices to address roster needs and maximize draft value. These unexpected NFL draft picks could prove to be shrewd moves, adding depth and talent to the Cowboys' roster. What are YOUR unexpected Cowboys draft picks? Share your thoughts in the comments below!