In a draft that holds immense significance for the future of the Dallas Cowboys, selecting a wide receiver (WR) in the first round would break a historic trend for the franchise. For decades, the Cowboys have consistently avoided taking a receiver early in the draft, a decision rooted in the franchise’s unique philosophy of roster building.
Dallas, known for its strong history of success in the NFL, has long prioritized other positions in the early rounds. Since 1995, when they selected the electric receiver Kevin Williams in the second round, the Cowboys have not chosen a wide receiver in the first round. Instead, they have opted for other areas of need, focusing on the offensive line, defense, and even running back, all with the intent to build a well-rounded and balanced roster. In fact, their most recent first-round picks have centered on positions such as cornerback, defensive end, and linebacker, all of which play critical roles in the Cowboys’ defensive strategies.
One reason for this trend is the organization’s belief in building from the inside out, starting with the offensive line to protect the quarterback and establish a strong running game. Dallas has often relied on drafting receivers later in the draft or developing them from within. This strategy paid off with players like Dez Bryant, who was drafted in the first round of 2010, and Amari Cooper, who was acquired through trade in 2018. While neither of those moves involved selecting a WR early in the draft, they both contributed to the success of the Cowboys’ offense.
However, the NFL has evolved, and offenses have become more pass-heavy in recent years. The rise of top-tier wide receivers across the league, from DeAndre Hopkins to Davante Adams, has highlighted the importance of dynamic playmakers on the outside. The Cowboys now find themselves at a crossroads: their current group of receivers, led by CeeDee Lamb, is solid, but an infusion of youth and talent could elevate the offense.
If the Cowboys select a WR in the first round, it would signal a shift in their approach to roster construction, and potentially mark a new era of offensive firepower. A WR could provide a dynamic counterpart to Lamb, giving quarterback Dak Prescott an explosive option and increasing the team’s ability to contend with high-scoring offenses in the NFC. A first-round wide receiver would mark a bold change, aligning Dallas with the modern trend of prioritizing playmaking receivers early in the draft.
Breaking this historic trend could pay off in a big way if the Cowboys are willing to adapt to the changing dynamics of the NFL.
