Think you can figure out which Cowboys player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game! Hey Cowboys fans! We’re back for another day of the Blogging The Boys in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form. If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article. Previous games Friday, April 11, 2025Thursday, April 10, 2025Wednesday, April 9, 2025 Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games NFL in-5MLB in-5MMA in-5 Blogging The Boys in-5 instructions The goal of the game is to guess the correct Cowboys player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it. After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form. Enjoy!

Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK 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. Bhayshul Tuten, RB, Virginia Tech 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. Bhayshul Tuten is a big play waiting to happen pic.twitter.com/JYljankqym — Billy M (@BillyM_91) March 8, 2025 Kalel Mullings, RB, Michigan 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. Arian Smith, WR, Georgia 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. He’s also more physical at the line of scrimmage than one might expect for his build. If you get him the ball in space, Smith can take it the distance. His lack of production will hurt his draft stock and he could fall out of the draft entirely, possibly making him a priority free agent. Kaden Prather, WR, Maryland Keeping up with the theme of traits and athleticism, Kaiden Prather also has some late-round aspects that Dallas could take a chance on. Like Smith, Prather doesn’t have elite production, causing some to question his overall outlook. However, when you examine his athleticism, size, and craftiness as a route runner, you get a prospect with a pretty high floor in contrast to where he projects to go in the draft. As a downfield threat, he knows how to stack a defender and position himself to high-point the ball over smaller defenders. Prather also has the grit to make contested catches over the middle of the field. He’d be a nice addition to the wide receiver room heading into rookie minicamp. Jabbar Muhammad, CB, Oregon The Cowboys have a pressing need at cornerback. Firstly, because of the health of their top two cornerbacks, Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland. Secondly, and equally important, is the departure of Jourdan Lewis from free agency. Dallas has a glaring hole at slot cornerback that needs to be addressed. Jabbar Muhammad is an ideal play for the Cowboys. Muhammad was an exceptional player at Washington during their march to the national championship game in 2023. He took a step back after his transfer in 2024 to Oregon, and there were questions about his physical limitations, such as his speed and size. Yet, Muhammad understands receiver routes and has a nose for football. Off the field, he has great character and is a welcome addition to a locker room of professionals. Every target or touch for All-Word WR Jeremiah Smith vs Jabbar Muhammad: Targets: 6Catches: 2Completion percentage: 33.33%Yards: 47Long: 38PBU: 2INTs: 0QB Rating: 62.0Carries: 1Yards: 5TDs: 0Total yards: 52 Coach Williams Ballhawk Grade: Pretty Damn Good!@jabbar7_ https://t.co/ZnxVbARee5 pic.twitter.com/yNF0bPhfw2 — Mighty Kaos aka Coach Williams (@mightykaos41) January 28, 2025 Bihal Kone, CB, Western Michigan Bihal Kone is a big corner with good strength and a solid press to jam receivers off the line of scrimmage. He’s a solid tackler on the boundary. Kone also has good athleticism in coverage and can make up for mistakes when beaten in coverage. He’s got a very good feel of when to play the ball in the air and get his hands out to deflect the ball at the right time without drawing unnecessary penalties downfield. Kone is a well-traveled prospect who has worked his way up from zero stars as a recruit to a D1 prospect with enticing physical traits. The Cowboys could find a diamond in the rough later

Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images The second round might be the right running back spot for the Cowboys. The idea of taking a running back in the first round is one that very few NFL fanbases approve of in today’s day and age. Discussions about the position and its worth have run rampant over the last decade or so, and while we all acknowledge that there is a legitimate value to it, that does not change the idea that spending premium draft capital there feels unwise. Consider our Wednesday discussion post here at BTB where we asked the class how they would feel about a running back at 12 (the likely option is Omarion Hampton to be clear). 42% led the way in terms of biggest majority and it was in being against the notion. Maybe you voted no on the poll and maybe it was because Hampton was the runner who is most likely the pick at 12 specifically given that Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty will likely be gone. As noted, if Dallas takes a running back at 12 the most logical option is indeed Hampton which is arguably why Mel Kiper sent him to Dallas in his latest mock. Beyond the cost of spending your most valuable draft asset on the position, the argument against a running back in the first round is generally that the position can be addressed elsewhere. Earlier this week our own Danny Phantom offered an exercise that gave an opportunity to assemble the best haul in the first round where running back, wide receiver and cornerback were each addressed. He noted that commenters were welcome to bring forth their preferred combination and this was one of the most rec’d solutions presented. BlueFlash Give me: Tmac Henderson Parish BlueFlash presented Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona), TreVeyon Henderson (Ohio State) and Jacob Parrish (Kansas State). Wide receiver, running back and cornerback all get love in this scenario. If you browse the rest of the comments the most popular/rec’d answers tend to offer Henderson in the second round. It feels pretty consensus that this would be a great direction for Dallas to go in. Consider that recently ESPN’s Jordan Reid noted that it seems more likely, in his estimation at least, that the Cowboys would go running back in the second round. He specifically noted Henderson as an option along with his fellow Buckeye in Quinshon Judkins. What we’re hearing about the Cowboys’ draft: The Cowboys have been open about needing an explosive receiver opposite CeeDee Lamb, with Matthew Golden (Texas) being heavily linked to them at the No. 12 pick. Running back is also a need for Dallas. While there has been talk about the Cowboys taking Omarion Hampton (North Carolina) at No. 12, it seems more likely that they’ll use their second-round pick on a runner. The team has expressed interest in Ohio State running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins in that spot. — Reid Thankfully it appears that the board is likely going to fall this way for the Cowboys. It is possible that things even go so well for them that they are able to pull off some sequence like this after even trading back in the first round. But for the Omarion Hampton fans, running back at 12 seems to be the most inefficient way to go about building this year’s draft class. Who disagrees?

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland may be moving into a big role in his second season. There’s been plenty of talk this offseason about the Cowboys’ likely reliance on young prospects on the 2025 roster. One such player is second-year DE Marshawn Kneeland, who could be looking at a starting job this year unless Dallas uses its first-round pick on his position. Of course, the draft could change realities for plenty of guys depending on who the Cowboys draft early. But with Dallas expected to deal with holes at RB, WR, or CB with their first few picks, an immediate new starter at other positions seems less likely. They’ll likely lean into the development of OT Tyler Guyton, DT Mazi Smith, and others to shore up issues at those spots. Kneeland, a second-round pick in 2024, is another guy the Cowboys may be counting on. With both DeMarcus Lawrence and Chauncey Golston leaving last month in free agency, Kneeland is the closest thing Dallas has currently had to a proper replacement. While Dante Fowler and Sam Williams’ returns will help with the pass rush, Kneeland’s size and game are closer to the run-stopping role that Lawrence and Golston helped fill. The Cowboys also signed Payton Turner, a former first-round pick by the Saints in 2021, but he’s also more of a pass rusher. And really, with his career never taking off in New Orleans, he’s hardly coming into Dallas with any expectations of an immediate role. He’s more of a roll of the dice than anything. Turner isn’t the first-round pick that Kneeland needs to worry about. It’s the next one, coming Thursday, April 24th, and the chance that Dallas could use it on one of the top edge prospects in this year’s class. That possibility certainly can’t be ignored given the potential “best player available” scenario, but at least the Cowboys have bigger needs to address once they’re on the clock. Still, Dallas has met with Georgia’s Mykel Williams, Tennessee’s James Pearce, and Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart in pre-draft visits. These are all players with strong first-round potential, so the Cowboys must at least be considering taking one if they’re not happy with their options at other positions. They could also be preparing in case one of them falls to the 44th pick, but that’s hardly something you can count on. In terms of replacing DeMarcus Lawrence, though, Kneeland already has a solid claim. He, like Tank, was a second-round pick. He was even compared to Lawrence when drafted as a guy who, while being stronger against the run, possessed all-around upside. Kneeland flashed enough in his opportunities to give hope for better things to come. One person inspired by Kneeland’s play was former Cowboys defensive lineman Tyrone Crawford, who posted the following on social media just a couple of weeks ago: I know there’s two guys on the Cowboys roster right now that people don’t talk a lot about, but their names are gonna blow up next year! — Tyrone Crawford (@TCrawford98) March 27, 2025 In replies to that tweet, Crawford confirmed that one of the players he was praising was Kneeland. Granted, he’s only one guy and no longer involved with the organization in any official capacity. But as a longtime veteran leader on Dallas’ defense, Crawford’s high opinion of Kneeland at least gives us reason to be excited. As with many other players come draft weekend, Marshawn Kneeland may see his fortunes change depending on who the Cowboys select. But for right now, he’s in a strong position to be a primary piece for Dallas’ run defense and perhaps more. It’s been a bit since the Cowboys hit big with a second-rounder (Trevon Diggs in 2020), so hopefully Kneeland can be one of the good ones. Dallas certainly needs him or someone else to step up and fill the void at defensive end.

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images Here is our Friday open thread for discussion. Happy Friday! A newer development around here this offseason has been discussion threads that we have been dropping every single weekday. The idea is simple. We offer a prompt, more often than not one related to the Dallas Cowboys or NFL at large, and sometimes we steer away from the game of football. Fridays are usually the time for that. Springtime is in full force as evidenced by the fact that some of our threads have touched on Major League Baseball and March Madness. If you are following the sports calendar then this means that The Masters is up next and today is officially the second round of the greatest tournament that golf has to offer. Maybe you are not watching the tournament which is obviously fine, but I would imagine that you at least have some sense of it happening in the sports world at large. For our Friday discussion we want to know (for those of you who are watching): Who do you want to see win The Masters? Why? Let us know in the comments below!

Think you can figure out which Cowboys player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game! Hey Cowboys fans! We’re back for another day of the Blogging The Boys in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form. If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article. Previous games Thursday, April 10, 2025Wednesday, April 9, 2025Tuesday, April 8, 2025 Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games NFL in-5MLB in-5MMA in-5 Blogging The Boys in-5 instructions The goal of the game is to guess the correct Cowboys player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it. After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form. Enjoy!

Photo by James Black/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images The Dallas Cowboys need a defensive tackle at some point in the draft so knowing these guys will be crucial from the team’s scouting department. We continue to dive in our top positional series and this time look at the top defensive tackles in this year’s draft, giving a quick description of their best and worst attribute. Mason Graham (Michigan) Best – Quickness Snap anticipation, burst, speed, and agility. Mason’s exceptional combination of quickness and technical pass rush skills makes him a disruptive force on the defensive line. His wrestling background contributes to his balance and hand usage, allowing him to effectively control offensive linemen and penetrate the backfield. Graham’s ability to generate pressure as both a run defender and pass rusher, despite not having prototypical size, sets him apart as a top prospect in this year’s draft at a top-5 prospect. Worst – Size At 6-foot-3 and 296 pounds, Graham is considered slightly undersized for an NFL defensive tackle. His arm length, which is coming in at 32”, is also shorter than ideal. This can make it challenging for Graham to disengage from blocks against larger, longer-armed offensive linemen. Kenneth Grant (Michigan) Best – Power Grant’s elite trait is his exceptional power. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing over 330 pounds, he possesses the physical dominance to anchor any defensive line and effectively occupy multiple blockers. Despite his substantial frame, Grant exhibits a remarkable explosive first step, allowing him to penetrate gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield. His ability to maintain control at the point of attack with his brute force and strength makes him a formidable run-stopper, and this will help him contribute on any defensive front. Worst – Pad Level Despite his elite size and strength, Grant often rises too high out of his stance when rushing the passer. This high pad level reduces his leverage and power, making it easier for offensive linemen to neutralize his bull rush and control him. It limits his effectiveness as a pass rusher and prevents him from fully capitalizing on his athletic gifts in obvious passing situations. Lowest man wins in the NFL, Grant is often the highest. Walter Nolen (Ole Miss) Best – Explosiveness Nolen’s greatest trait is his exceptional first-step explosiveness. This quick initial movement allows him to penetrate offensive lines rapidly, disrupting plays in the backfield and applying immediate pressure on quarterbacks. His combination of speed and power makes him a formidable presence on the defensive line. Worst – Pad Level Consistency Nolen’s most notable weakness is his inconsistent pad level. This deteriorates and becomes more obvious as the game continues and Nolen gets more fatigued. Unfortunately, Nolen has a tendency to play too upright, which allows offensive linemen to gain leverage and control the point of attack. This chink in his armor shows up in both pass-rushing and run defense situations as his motor cools. Derrick Harmon (Oregon) Best – Core Strength Harmon’s elite trait is his exceptional upper body strength which he uses effectively to be a disruptive force along the defensive line during all phases of the game. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 313 pounds, Harmon possesses a rare blend of physical attributes that make him a formidable opponent for offensive linemen. His impressive upper body strength and core stability allow him to effectively anchor against the run and collapse the pocket during pass-rushing situations, and he does this at an NFL level already. Worst – Pass Rush Technique Despite possessing an ideal blend of size and strength for a defensive tackle, Harmon can sometimes struggle to consistently execute proper hand placement and maintain effective leverage in pass rush situations. This inconsistency means that he misjudges angles or relies too heavily on his raw athleticism rather than using refined technique, which limits his ability to reliably defeat NFL-caliber blockers in passing situations. Darius Alexander (Toledo) Best – Explosiveness Much like Walter Nolen, Alexander also displays an elite ability to rapidly accelerate and disrupt offensive plays immediately after the snap. This makes him a disruptive presence in both run support and pass-rushing situations. This quick burst of speed allows him to close gaps effectively, challenge blockers, and force turnovers in the backfield. Worst – Consistent Attack While Alexander is highly effective at creating burst off the line, but he struggles to keep that intensity sustained as the play develops. Once his initial burst fades, offensive blockers often have time to adjust their schemes, reducing his overall disruptive impact. In other words, his challenge lies in transitioning from that explosive start into a consistently controlled and impactful performance for the entire play. Alfred Collins (Texas) Best – Run Defense Collins distinguishes himself with disciplined gap control and a powerful drive against offensive linemen that makes him particularly effective against the run. He reads plays quickly, positions himself well to disrupt running lanes, and uses his strength and leverage to fill gaps and force runners off their intended paths. His ability to remain low, maintain a solid base, and deliver decisive, hard-hitting tackles minimizes the effectiveness of the opposing run game, making him a key asset in run defense. Worst – Pass Rush Collins is a pure run-stopping nose tackle and struggles with any sort of pass rushing skills. This narrow focus can make his game predictable. When facing offensive linemen who adjust or quickly mirror his moves, Collins struggles to generate consistent pressure in any passing situation. Diversifying his technique with a wider array of pass-rushing moves would help him become a more balanced and versatile defender on the field. Tyleik Williams (Ohio State) Best – Hand Technique Williams has demonstrated a refined knack at being so effective in run defense. His ability to diagnose plays quickly, lock onto his gap responsibilities, and deliver decisive, physical stops makes him a cornerstone of the defense. Rather than relying solely on explosiveness, he excels in using proper hand technique and leverage to control the line of scrimmage, forcing running

Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images It sounds like DeMarvion Overshown will be starting the season on the PUP list. This has been a big week for DeMarvion Overshown. On Wednesday it was announced that he would become the first player in Dallas Cowboys franchise history to wear the number 0. It had seemed like Overshown wanted the honor for a couple of years now, but it took until now for it to finally and fully happen. We all understand that this is not breaking news by any stretch, but it is somewhat significant around this time of year where we are watching The Masters and waiting for the NFL Draft to get here. Overshown made an appearance on Up & Adams on Thursday to talk about his number change among other things and he was asked about his rehab and recovery process. “I’ve been through it before, but this time it feels way easier. The mental side is really what I’m focusing on because I know physically I’m going to be okay… the problem most people have coming off something like this is just having confidence that they’re that guy that they was before.” This perspective makes a lot of sense from Overshown as he has obviously been through rehab in the NFL before. Mentality is such a big thing and it appears that he has the right one. When he was initially injured during the season, reports at the time suggested that missing the 2025 season was a very real possibility for him. It goes without saying that we have a long way to go before anything along that line is fully decided. For what it’s worth, Overshown is taking the most optimistic outlook possible and said that he is doing everything in his power to be ready for Week 1. He did note that he is likely to start the season on the PUP list, though. “Nowadays, being young in my career, it’s something that you don’t want to rush. I’ll probably start off on the PUP list, but I’m not throwing away starting off in Week 1. I’m never throwing that out the door. I’m working for it.” You can file this under Things We Already Assumed, but again it is nice to hear that Overshown has a positive mindset during something that is incredibly difficult. Hopefully that carries him through it to whenever he does wind up making his next appearance on the field.

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images Here is our scouting report on Maxwell Hairston from Kentucky We continue our 2025 NFL Draft preview of draft prospects that could interest the Dallas Cowboys. Today we are looking at cornerback Maxwell Hairston from Kentucky. Maxwell Hairston CBKentucky WildcatsJunior 3-star recruit 5’11”183 lbs Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images History Maxwell Hairston was born on August 6, 2003, in West Bloomfield, Michigan. During his senior year at West Bloomfield High School, he demonstrated exceptional defensive skills, recording 16 pass deflections, three interceptions, and three forced fumbles. His athletic versatility extended beyond football, as he also participated in basketball and track. Despite receiving offers from schools like Kansas, Minnesota, Purdue, Virginia Tech, and Washington State, Hairston committed to Kentucky, citing the program as his “dream school.” In 2021, Hairston redshirted for his freshman year, focusing on developing his skills and understanding of the collegiate game. In 2022, as a redshirt freshman, he appeared in 12 games, primarily contributing on special teams and as a reserve defensive back. He recorded two total tackles, one solo and one assist. In 2023, Hairston emerged as a key player in the Wildcats’ secondary. In 13 games, he amassed 68 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and led the SEC with five interceptions for 131 return yards and two pick-sixes. Additionally, he had six pass deflections and one forced fumble. Notably, in a game against Vanderbilt, he set a school record by returning two interceptions for touchdowns, earning him Second-Team All-SEC honors. Despite being limited to seven games due to a shoulder injury in 2024, Hairston continued to showcase his defensive prowess. He recorded 19 total tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, one interception returned for 25 yards and a touchdown, four pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. His performance once again earned Second-Team All-SEC recognition. Hairston tied the Kentucky Wildcat’s record for most career interceptions returned for touchdowns with three, a record he shares with Dallas Owens back in 1974. 2024 Statistics 297 Defensive Snaps142 Coverage Snaps19 Total Tackles1 Tackles For Loss1 Sack4 Pass Breakups1 INT1 INT-TD1 Forced Fumble78.2 Passer Rating Allowed55% Completion Rate Allowed2 Penalties NFL Combine/Pro Day 10-Yard Split- 1.50s (87%)40-Yard Dash- 4.28 (99%)Vert- 39.5” (89%) Broad- 129” (89%) Awards Second-team All-SEC (2024)Second-team All-SEC (2023) Scorecard Overall- 89.7Speed-97Acceleration- 85Agility- 81Strength- 62Tackling- 77Run Defense- 58Zone Coverage- 88Man Coverage- 84Press- 74Discipline- 92 THE GOOD Has exceptional ball-hawking skills, recording six interceptions over his collegiate career. His ability to read the quarterback and anticipate routes makes him a significant threat in coverage. Exhibits proficiency in both man and zone coverage schemes. His length and agility allow him to effectively press receivers at the line. Hairston possesses elite speed and quickness necessary to stay with the fastest NFL receivers. Has fluid hips and change-of-direction skills. TAPE TIME CB Maxwell HairstonKentucky ✅ THE GOOD✅#scouting #NFLDraft #Wildcats #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/empTnH6U9H — Mike Poland (@kenfigkowboy) April 8, 2025 THE BAD He could benefit from adding muscle mass to better contend with physical receivers. Improving his tackling technique and consistency will be crucial. Had 12 missed tackles the last two seasons. Needs to refine his technique in press coverage with his hand placement and footwork. His smaller size raises concerns of durability in the NFL. Medical red flag after missing most of 2024. TAPE TIME CB Maxwell HairstonKentucky ❌THE BAD❌#scouting #NFLDraft #Wildcats #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/ePD1rwVF3d — Mike Poland (@kenfigkowboy) April 8, 2025 THE FIT Maxwell Hairston is a dynamic cornerback prospect with a knack for creating turnovers and a solid foundation in various coverage schemes. He excels in zone coverage, demonstrating outstanding spatial awareness and the ability to process multiple route combinations simultaneously. His exceptional closing speed allows him to break on the ball swiftly, making him a significant threat to disrupt passes. Additionally, his fluid change-of-direction skills enable him to mirror receivers effectively through their routes. These attributes, combined with his instinctive playmaking ability, make him a formidable presence in the secondary. There are some concerns with Hairston. His slender frame raises concerns about his durability and ability to consistently engage physically with larger, more robust NFL receivers. Enhancing his upper body strength will be crucial to effectively contest catches and maintain tight coverage. Additionally, while Hairston’s aggressive playing style contributes to his playmaking ability, it can sometimes lead to overcommitting, making him susceptible to double moves and misdirection plays. Developing greater discipline and refining his technique, particularly in press-man coverage, will help mitigate these vulnerabilities. Furthermore, improving his tackling consistency is essential, as his current technique results in missed tackles. Hairston’s exceptional ball skills and versatility in coverage make him a compelling prospect for the Dallas Cowboys, that have a big weakness at cornerback. With the departure of veteran cornerback Jourdan Lewis and uncertainty surrounding Trevon Diggs’ injury recovery, the Cowboys have a pressing need at the cornerback position. His ability to anticipate routes and create turnovers could significantly enhance the Cowboys’ pass defense. Additionally, his agility and speed would be a valuable assets in countering the dynamic receiving threats within the NFC East. Selecting Hairston would not only address a critical roster gap but also provide the Cowboys with a young talent capable of immediate contribution and long-term development. COMPARISON: Rasul Douglas, Philadelphia Eagles BTB GRADE: 34th CONSENSUS RANKING: 35th(Consensus ranking based on the average ranking from 90 major scoring services, including BTB)

Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images Who do you think should be the number one overall pick in the NFL Draft? Today officially marks two weeks to go until the NFL Draft hits. It goes without saying that this will be an incredibly important few days for the Dallas Cowboys as far as the 2025 season is concerned, and certainly beyond that as you have to be able to stock your roster with options that can help you for a handful of years. Across the league though, there are a number of questions that we are anxious to answer. Someone like Travis Hunter is incredibly rare entering the NFL, so seeing where he winds up and whether or not he can play both ways at the professional level will be fun to track regardless of where he winds up. Some would argue (and have) that Hunter should be the top pick in the draft. Obviously positional relevance comes into play in these kinds of things and there is none more valuable than quarterback. It feels safe to assume that Miami’s Cam Ward will go number one overall to the Tennessee Titans. Should he, though? Or should Tennessee consider a different direction? For our Thursday discussion here on the blog we want to know what should happen with the number one overall pick in your opinion?