Here are some late-round prospects to keep in mind.
As the draft approaches, you can formulate what direction the Dallas Cowboys may go with the 12th overall selection. When you assess Dallas’ pre-draft 30 visits with prospects, you can sense what positions they may choose at the top of their draft board. Dallas has taken a long look at defensive linemen, receivers, and running backs, meeting with Omarion Hampton, Matthew Golden, and Walter Nolen. The top of the draft isn’t what decides the entire class of rookies, but it dictates how the remainder of the board will be stacked for the Cowboys. Whether you argue in favor of one position over another, receiver, running back, edge rusher, or other, with the 12th pick, and Dallas chooses otherwise, don’t be disappointed. Different options are littered throughout the draft, even in the later stages. Here are some prospects to watch for on day 3 or later.
While some fans have set their sights on Ohio State’s TreyVeyon Henderson in the second round, there’s reason to believe he will not be there once Dallas picks again at 44. If you covet a player with a similar profile and speed, look no further than Virginia Tech’s Bhayshul Tuten. He was an explosive runner last season, going for over 1,100 yards, and had 6.3 yards per attempt. He’s got some pass-catching upside as a third-down running back and should fit in well playing alongside Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. Tuten ran a 4.32 40-yard dash at the combine and has home run potential. He can also contribute on special teams as he has two kickoff returns for touchdowns in 2023.
The Cowboys have tinkered with Hunter Leupke as their short-yardage runner, but they don’t have the traditional bruising runner to fill that role. Kalel Mullings would serve that purpose. He’s a big, downhill runner who looks to lay the boom on opposing defenses. Mullins has a strong build with good leg drive to churn out tough runs. He can also be tasked to help on third downs as a pass protector and is willing to pick up the free rusher. Mullins could fall as late as the sixth round, where Dallas has the 211th overall pick.
Wide receiver is one of the most discussed topics when assessing what needs the Cowboys have. Whether you prefer Matthew Golden or Tetairoa McMillan, Dallas needs receivers with enviable characteristics to give the offense life and lessen the burden on CeeDee Lamb. If Dallas doesn’t miss out on early difference makers at wide receiver, choosing to bank on what they have on their roster and later in the draft, Arian Smith is a good choice.
The numbers won’t look great in 2024, but that’s because Georgia’s offense regressed and had inconsistent play at quarterback with Carson Beck and Gunnar Stockton. Smith has terrific speed and was clocked at 4.36 on his 40-yard dash....