NFL combine players to keep an eye on for the Dallas Cowboys draft targets

As the NFL offseason moves into full swing, all eyes turn toward the annual NFL Scouting Combine, where top college prospects showcase their skills in front of coaches, scouts, and front-office executives. The Dallas Cowboys, who have established themselves as one of the most successful franchises in the league, are always looking for talent to help them compete for a Super Bowl. The 2025 draft will be no exception, and with the Cowboys holding key draft picks, there are several potential prospects they’ll be keeping a close eye on during the combine.

With the Cowboys having both strengths and weaknesses across their roster, it’s important for them to address specific needs while also looking to add depth in key areas. Whether it’s offensive line, defensive line, cornerback, or wide receiver, the NFL Combine is the place where potential stars will shine, and the Cowboys’ front office will need to take advantage of the opportunity to assess these prospects. This article will highlight key players in the 2025 NFL Draft who could be significant targets for the Cowboys.

1. O-line Prospects: Filling the Gap in the Trenches

The Dallas Cowboys have long been known for their dominant offensive line, with players like Tyron Smith, Zack Martin, and Travis Frederick forming the backbone of a historically good unit. However, injuries and age have begun to take a toll, leaving the Cowboys in need of young, talented offensive linemen who can step in and contribute immediately.

Paris Johnson Jr. (OT, Ohio State)

One of the most highly regarded offensive line prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft is Paris Johnson Jr., a massive and athletic offensive tackle from Ohio State. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 315 pounds, Johnson possesses the size and athleticism that NFL scouts crave. He has experience playing both left and right tackle for the Buckeyes and has shown the versatility to handle multiple roles along the offensive line.

At the combine, Johnson will likely show off impressive strength and agility, which could solidify his status as one of the top offensive line prospects. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside and create lanes in the run game makes him a potential target for the Cowboys, who need help securing their offensive line for the future.

Broderick Jones (OT, Georgia)

Another top-tier offensive tackle prospect is Broderick Jones from the University of Georgia. At 6’4″ and 310 pounds, Jones combines ideal size with exceptional athleticism. His ability to dominate defenders in both pass protection and the running game makes him one of the top tackles in the class.

Jones was a key part of Georgia’s dominant offense, helping the team win national championships, and his combine performance will be critical to his draft stock. If Jones can showcase his strength, quickness, and technical skills, he could be an enticing option for the Cowboys, especially if they want to address long-term concerns at left tackle or find a capable swing tackle.

2. Defensive Line Prospects: Strengthening the Pass Rush

The Dallas Cowboys have one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses, largely thanks to the efforts of star pass rusher Micah Parsons and a strong front seven. However, the Cowboys’ defensive line could use more depth, especially when it comes to generating consistent pressure from the interior. Adding a versatile and powerful defensive lineman could help them continue to dominate on defense.

Jalen Carter (DT, Georgia)

One of the most hyped prospects entering the 2025 draft is Jalen Carter, a disruptive defensive tackle from the University of Georgia. Carter is a rare combination of size, strength, and quickness, standing at 6’3″ and weighing 310 pounds. His ability to penetrate the offensive line and disrupt plays in the backfield is second to none, making him one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft.

Carter was a key component of Georgia’s dominant defense and has the potential to be an immediate difference-maker in the NFL. His ability to both rush the passer and stop the run could make him an excellent addition to the Cowboys’ defensive line rotation. If Carter performs well at the combine, particularly in the 40-yard dash and agility drills, he could solidify his place as one of the Cowboys’ top targets.

Mazi Smith (DT, Michigan)

Another potential defensive tackle target for the Cowboys is Mazi Smith from the University of Michigan. Smith is a powerful, explosive defensive lineman with the size to play the nose tackle position and disrupt the offensive line’s blocking schemes. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 337 pounds, Smith brings a strong, physical presence to the field. His ability to clog up running lanes while also being a threat as a pass rusher makes him a versatile option for Dallas.

Smith’s performance at the combine, especially his bench press and shuttle drills, will be crucial in showcasing his raw power and agility. The Cowboys need to get better in the interior of their defensive line, and Smith could be a perfect fit for their defense.

3. Cornerback Prospects: Addressing Secondary Needs

The Dallas Cowboys have one of the top cornerback tandems in the league in Trevon Diggs and Stephon Gilmore. However, Gilmore is getting older, and adding depth to the cornerback position remains a priority for the team. The Cowboys need someone who can contribute immediately in coverage and add depth behind their star corners.

Kelee Ringo (CB, Georgia)

Kelee Ringo, a highly touted cornerback from the University of Georgia, is one of the top defensive prospects in the 2025 draft. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 210 pounds, Ringo has the size, athleticism, and ball skills that NFL teams covet. He has demonstrated the ability to shut down receivers in man coverage and is also a playmaker who can create turnovers.

At the combine, Ringo will look to impress with his speed and agility. His combination of size and athleticism makes him a potential target for the Cowboys, who could use an upgrade at cornerback depth. If Ringo runs a strong 40-yard dash and demonstrates good coverage skills in drills, he could rise up Dallas’s draft board.

Devon Witherspoon (CB, Illinois)

Devon Witherspoon from Illinois is another cornerback who could be a solid draft target for the Cowboys. Witherspoon is known for his exceptional coverage skills, strong fundamentals, and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 185 pounds, Witherspoon has the athleticism to keep up with top-tier wide receivers, making him an ideal fit for teams that need help in coverage.

Witherspoon is also a tough and physical corner who excels in both man and zone coverage. His combine performance will be key in showcasing his top-end speed and agility. Witherspoon could be an immediate contributor to the Cowboys’ secondary, potentially giving them more flexibility to rotate their cornerbacks and match up against top offenses.

4. Wide Receiver Prospects: Bolstering the Passing Attack

The Cowboys have a talented receiving corps, led by CeeDee Lamb, but adding another dynamic playmaker to the mix could take their offense to the next level. A deep threat who can stretch the field would complement Dak Prescott’s skill set and provide a spark to the passing game.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR, Ohio State)

Jaxon Smith-Njigba is widely regarded as one of the top wide receivers in the 2025 draft class. After an impressive career at Ohio State, Smith-Njigba is known for his route-running ability, hands, and separation skills. He has a well-rounded skill set and is capable of making an impact at all levels of the field.

At the combine, Smith-Njigba will look to solidify his status as a top receiver by showcasing his speed, agility, and ability to separate from defenders. His quickness in drills, particularly the 3-cone drill and shuttle, will be crucial to determining how well he could contribute to the Cowboys’ offense. If Smith-Njigba can showcase his elite skill set, he could be an intriguing target for the Cowboys.

Jordan Addison (WR, USC)

Jordan Addison, who transferred to USC from Pitt, is another wide receiver who could be a great fit for the Cowboys. Addison has a knack for getting open and making contested catches, and he brings a playmaking ability that could complement the Cowboys’ already strong receiving corps. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 175 pounds, Addison possesses the speed and explosiveness to take the top off a defense.

Addison’s combine performance will be crucial in showing off his 40-yard dash time and his ability to make sharp cuts on short routes. His ability to break tackles and create yards after the catch could be vital for a Cowboys offense that looks to become more explosive in the coming years.

5. Linebacker Prospects: Bolstering the Defense

The Dallas Cowboys have one of the best linebackers in the league in Micah Parsons, but depth is always important, and adding another high-level linebacker to their defense could make them even more formidable.

Jack Campbell (LB, Iowa)

Jack Campbell is a talented linebacker from Iowa who brings great instincts and tackling ability to the table. At 6’5″ and 250 pounds, Campbell has the size and athleticism to cover ground quickly and impact the game both as a tackler and in pass coverage. His combine results, particularly his 40-yard dash and bench press, will give scouts a good sense of his athleticism and ability to handle the speed of the NFL.

For the Cowboys, Campbell could be an intriguing target to help solidify their linebacker corps and add another versatile defender who can cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game while also being a force in the run game.