Mike McCarthy needs to land an impact starter in Round 1. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
The Cowboys can’t afford to draft a project player in Round 1. They need to land an impact starter capable of helping them win right away.
Mike McCarthy is under pressure to win big next season for the Cowboys. That’s why Dallas should be expected to target prospects who can play right away in Round 1 of next month’s draft. The good news for fans in Dallas is that several intriguing options should be on the board when the team goes on the clock with the No. 26 overall selection.
The Cowboys have several obvious roster needs to fill this offseason. There is a lot of uncertainty with the team’s linebacking corps due to free agency. Nabbing a top-flight corner to play opposite Trevon Diggs could hold strong appeal with the team’s defensive coaching staff.
Securing a weapon to help Dak Prescott on the outside could also be a priority for the Cowboys in this year’s draft. That’s why this local TCU prospect could be in play for Dallas if he takes a tumble in Round 1.
The Cowboys need to focus on these five NFL Draft prospects:
5. Quentin Johnston
Johnston has the ideal size to function as a starter on the outside at the next level. Combine his 6-foot-3 frame with the 40-inch vertical he posted at the combine and it’s easy to see why quite a few NFL teams view him as the top receiver in this year’s draft class.
It’s unlikely that Johnston falls all the way down to 26 which is why he’s the fifth player on this list. The Cowboys would love to draft him to loosen things up for Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. It’s just unlikely they’ll have that opportunity unless they’re willing to move up to grab him.
He’s still a prospect worth mentioning that could fall a bit if he doesn’t run well at his Pro Day. The Cowboys would love to see the Texas product flip to them toward the bottom of Round 1.
