If the Dallas Cowboys aimed to fully embrace a draft focused solely on top-tier athleticism, we crafted a mock draft for that purpose. We ensured the selections were realistic within draft ranges, prioritizing the best athletic prospects available at each pick. Our approach relies on public Relative Athletic Scoring (RAS) metrics when available, alongside verified pro day data whenever necessary. This mock emphasizes selecting the highest-rated athletic talent available with each draft choice.
Pick 12: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
In this mock, we disregard positional value and instead focus on acquiring an exceptionally rare athlete. Styles, standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 244 pounds, previously played safety and recorded an impressive 10.00 RAS. NFL.com has even suggested him falling to Dallas at 12, making this a plausible outcome. In an athletic traits-focused draft, his size, range, blitzing skills, and potential in coverage make him a standout choice, fulfilling a significant need for the Cowboys.
Pick 20: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Fano, measuring 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, showcased exceptional athleticism, running a 4.91s 40-yard dash with a remarkable 1.72s 10-yard split, 32-inch vertical, and impressive broad jump. With a 9.76 RAS, securing him at pick 20 is an excellent value, particularly as he ranks 12th overall on the consensus board. For this type of mock draft, Fano emerges as a reliable option due to his high-end athletic profile as an offensive lineman.
Pick 92: Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State
Hurst stands nearly 6-foot-4 and weighs 206 pounds, boasting an elite 9.90 RAS, making him a strong Day 2 pick. Although Dallas does not desperately need a receiver at this stage, his size and athletic profile highlight the type of player that is prioritized when traits take precedence over polish in this mock.
Pick 112: Will Lee III, CB, Texas A&M
As the Cowboys look to strengthen their cornerback position, Lee stands out as an ideal candidate due to his exceptional athleticism. With a 4.52s 40-yard dash, a 42-inch vertical, and a 11-foot broad jump, he has a compelling 9.39 RAS. Moreover, he is positioned 114th on PFF’s big board, making his selection at pick 112 both realistic and strategic.
Pick 152: VJ Payne, S, Kansas State
Payne, at 6-foot-3 and 206 pounds, ran a 4.40s 40-yard dash, showcasing a 9.72 RAS that aligns him with fifth-round conversations. He embodies the kind of player this mock aims to highlight: one whose outstanding physical traits outweigh concerns regarding his overall polish, making him a compelling pick in the fifth round.
