Cowboys’ Draft Strategy Under New Coach Brian Shoettenheimer
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for a new era under the leadership of head coach Brian Shoettenheimer. One of the key focal points for the team is to surround their franchise quarterback, Dak Prescott, with a plethora of offensive weapons. Prescott, who struggled after missing nine games due to a hamstring injury, experienced a significant decline in performance compared to his MVP runner-up season in 2023, with his passer rating dropping from 105.9 to 86.0.
The Need for Offensive Reinforcement
Apart from CeeDee Lamb, the 2023 All-Pro receiver, the Cowboys lacked a significant receiving threat, with no other player surpassing 610 receiving yards. Additionally, despite running back Rico Dowdle’s impressive 1,000-yard rushing season, the team as a whole ranked 27th in the NFL in yards per carry. With Dowdle set to enter free agency, speculation has arisen that the Cowboys might opt for one of the top running backs in the draft class, such as Ashton Jeanty or Omarion Hampton.
A Game-Changing Draft Pick
However, in a surprising twist, ESPN’s Jordan Reid’s latest mock draft suggests that the Cowboys are eyeing a different type of impact player. Reid highlights the urgent need for a complementary receiving threat alongside CeeDee Lamb, proposing Tetairoa McMillan as a potential game-changer. Describing McMillan as a 6-foot-4, 219-pound receiver with an impressive catch radius, Reid emphasizes his ability to excel both in the slot and on the outside, positioning him as an ideal WR2 for the Cowboys.
McMillan’s College Success and Potential
During his tenure with the University of Arizona Wildcats, McMillan showcased his prowess by amassing 2,721 yards and 18 touchdowns over two seasons. His remarkable average of 15.7 yards per reception on 174 catches underscores his big-play potential. While questions linger about McMillan’s speed, which will be tested during his pro day, his size and catch radius make him a formidable threat in one-on-one matchups—a skill set that would complement Lamb’s presence effectively.
Draft Day Dilemma
Opting for McMillan in the draft would necessitate passing on talents like Hampton and Jeanty. However, the Cowboys could still address their running back needs in the second round, leveraging the depth of this year’s draft class to secure a day-one starter. This strategic move could potentially fortify the Cowboys’ offensive arsenal and elevate their performance in the upcoming season.
