The Dallas Cowboys have made noticeable moves during the first week of NFL free agency, actively adding depth to their roster with eleven new players through signings and trades. Yet, their strategy has raised questions about how well they are addressing key needs, particularly at wide receiver. Although they have bolstered other positions, the Cowboys still have significant gaps to fill as they head toward the NFL Draft.
This year's free agency period marks a stark difference from last, with the Cowboys acquiring running backs Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, and bringing back Dante Fowler Jr. from Washington. Despite these changes, concerns about their wide receiver corps linger, as it remains one of the team's most pressing needs.
According to reports leading up to the draft, the Cowboys are anticipated to draft wide receiver Luther Burden III from Missouri with their first-round pick, number 12 overall. The need for another top receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb cannot be overstated. "While Burden isn't the biggest WR, he is able to go up and high point the football at a high level, which opens up the possible routes he could win at the pro level," says Destin Adams of A to Z Sports. Burden's smaller stature at 5-foot-11 may raise concerns about his effectiveness against bigger cornerbacks, but his talent shines through, especially when making contested catches.
Moving to the second round, the Cowboys might focus on adding cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. from East Carolina. Revel was once projected as a first-round pick but underwent ACL surgery last October. The surgery was performed by Dr. Daniel Cooper, whom the Cowboys have worked with for years, creating optimism about Revel's recovery and future potential. Given the franchise's history—Dr. Cooper was instrumental in their selection of Jaylon Smith back in 2016—the Cowboys might view this as a risk worth taking. Revel could be developed as the Cowboys look to fortify their defense.
Finally, the Cowboys are projected to select running back Cam Skattebo from Arizona State with their third-round pick. Skattebo's stats tell quite the story—he recorded 2,316 yards from scrimmage during his college career, showing his capability to make plays on the field. Ryan Roberts, another A to Z Sports analyst, shared some reservations about Skattebo, noting, "I feel like I’m an outlier on Skattebo, and I’m okay withthat. He was a great college football player both at Sacramento State and Arizona State, but I just personally think he lacks the juice to be the top running back in a room." His running style reflects the physicality the coaching staff desires, but concerns about his athleticism might limit his potential as the featured back.
Despite the promising draft predictions, the Cowboys have not significantly improved their wide receiver lineup. The signing of Parris Campbell might seem notable, but his track record reveals inconsistency—having recorded only 20 receptions for 104 yards with the New York Giants last season after previously posting 63 receptions for 623 yards. While Campbell adds some experience, the current depth chart behind CeeDee Lamb offers little reassurance.
With Jalen Tolbert showing some promise by recording 49 receptions for 610 yards and seven touchdowns last season, it seems the Cowboys still need more reliable targets. KaVontae Turpin, known for his return game, provided 420 yards on 31 receptions last year but isn’t viewed as a primary receiver either. Jonathan Mingo, who had only five receptions since joining the team mid-season, faces tough competition with Campbell, Ryan Flournoy, and other lesser-known players like Jalen Brooks.
The contrasting performance and need for more reliable receivers highlight the Cowboys' struggles to build the right offensive structure. Without significant investments at the receiver position, the front office's risk-taking could come back to haunt them if other teams step up their game with stronger rosters. The addition of Burden or another wide receiver pick may be the answer they need to remain competitive as they prepare for the future.
Overall, as the Cowboys prepare for the impending NFL Draft, they must address their wide receiver needs to bolster their offense. With so much potential left to explore, the draft will be pivotal as they look to refine their roster and chase another championship title.
