Key Takeaways:
– Despite the Dallas Cowboys’ somewhat debatable approach to the 2024 NFL Draft, they addressed key positions.
– The team devoted five of their eight selections to reinforcing offensive and defensive lines.
– Their draft strategy raised doubts among analysts due to the selection of raw prospects, possibly adding pressure on the team’s overall performance.
– Tyler Guyton’s selection in the first round has stirred mixed reactions, but the ex-NFL GM views his addition favorably.
– Ezekiel Elliott is returning to the Cowboys on a team-friendly contract, potentially a player to count on this season.
Draft Decisions: Dallas Cowboys in the Spotlight
As part of its approach towards the 2024 season, the Dallas Cowboys showcased a commitment to strengthening their lines in the NFL Draft. The franchise, which had demonstrated a keen interest in the season, had to weather a doubtful storm after their approach to the free agency signing period. However, they used this opportunity to address five key positions on their offensive and defensive lines out of their eight selections.
NFL media analyst, Bucky Brooks, compiled a list of commendable draft class selections across the league. However, the Cowboys’ approach left him puzzled by the team’s strategy. According to Brooks, their choice of untested players, Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe, posed significant questions. These uncertainties could potentially impact the future of the Cowboys’ offensive mechanism, producing inconsistencies in their performance against top-performing teams.
On the other hand, former Minnesota Vikings general manager and current CBS Sports analyst, Rick Spielman, has a different view of the Cowboys’ first-round choice, Guyton. Despite some analyst and NFL evaluators tagging the Oklahoma tackle as a premature prospect, Spielman believes the player sufficiently satisfies one of the Cowboys’ pressing needs.
Guyton’s Potential Impact and Positioning
Spielman not only defended Guyton’s choice, he expressed hope for a possible switch of the player’s position. Occasionally, roster changes can make a significant difference in team performance. In the case of Guyton, shifting him to the left side might prove advantageous to the Cowboys, believes Spielman. He applauded Guyton’s style and the grit he carries onto the field. Praising his enormous potential, Spielman feels Guyton might excel more as a left tackle than at his previous college position.
Guyton’s selection is particularly crucial, given that the Cowboys failed to re-sign Tyron Smith in the free agency period. If Guyton is able to step up and seamlessly adapt to the NFL’s rigors, it would offset some of the fallout from Smith’s departure. Pro Football Focus data reveals that Guyton exhibited commendable performance last season, allowing no sacks and only a few quarterback hits and hurries.
Ezekiel Elliott Returns to the Cowboys’ Domain
In more uplifting news, the Cowboys see a familiar face rejoin their ranks. Veteran running back, Ezekiel Elliott, is set to return, electing to play on a team-friendly contract. Following a brief transition to the New England Patriots in the 2023 campaign, the comeback has been welcomed by the team, specifically Cowboys QB Dak Prescott, who praised Elliott’s intense focus and dedication during crucial game moments.
The Star-Telegram reports that Elliott will enter a one-year contract of $3 million, including a $2 million guarantee. His return, coupled with his experience and capabilities, could serve as an essential catalyst on the field for the Cowboys. Elliott himself, excited to reunite with his team, tells The Star-Telegram, “I’m excited to get back with the fellas and chase that ring.”
As the Cowboys make moves to restructure their lineup, the 2024 season will undoubtedly unfold with intrigue. With the draft pictures completed and a mix of new and old talent converging, the way the Cowboys navigate this season could impact their future for years to come.