Overview
- Dallas is widely flagged by league reporters as a team to watch for a first‑round move up, though ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler says the Cowboys are not working the phones heavily yet.
- High‑profile mocks from Mel Kiper Jr., Todd McShay and Dane Brugler each project Dallas moving up to No. 6 to draft Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles.
- Kiper’s scenario includes sending both first‑rounders to Cleveland, while McShay’s version keeps No. 20 and uses pick No. 12 plus other assets, and Brugler’s deal swaps 12 and 20 for No. 6 while bringing back No. 39.
- Local and analytical pieces outline a stay‑put path at Nos. 12 and 20, with names like LSU corner Mansoor Delane and Clemson edge T. J. Parker, and they warn that paying premium capital for an off‑ball linebacker could delay fixes at pass rush and the secondary and complicate future contract math.
- Context for the buzz is Dallas’s need-heavy defense under new coordinator Christian Parker after finishing near the bottom in points and yards allowed last season, with the draft opening April 23.