Frisco, TX – April 18, 2025
All signs pointed to offense.
Running back? Maybe.
Wide receiver? Highly likely.
But according to Pro Football Focus’ Dalton Wasserman, the Dallas Cowboys might be cooking up something completely different at pick No. 12:
Jahdae Barron. Cornerback. Texas Longhorns.
Yeah, you read that right. A defensive back — and not even one widely mocked in the Top 15.
🧠 Why Barron?
Because the guy just locks down space.
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Over 900 career snaps at slot corner
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Graded as the No. 1 zone coverage CB in all of FBS last season
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Plays with elite anticipation, footwork, and closing speed
And here’s the kicker:
He’s tailor-made for new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’ zone-heavy scheme.
🛑 But Wait… at Pick 12?
Is it a reach? Maybe.
But Wasserman believes if the Cowboys:
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Can’t trade down
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Aren’t sold on the top WRs
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And want a plug-and-play defensive chess piece…
Then Barron isn’t just a backup plan. He’s the plan.
🔍 Bigger Picture: Cowboys’ Secondary Needs Juice
With Stephon Gilmore gone, Jourdan Lewis aging, and questions around DaRon Bland’s full-time boundary fit, this secondary needs more than depth — it needs talent that can start Week 1.
“Barron may not be flashy, but he’s the type of player that lets the rest of your defense breathe,” said one anonymous scout.
📅 What This Means for Draft Night
The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off April 24 at Lambeau Field. While everyone’s watching the big-name offensive weapons, don’t be surprised if the Cowboys take a left turn — and secure a high-IQ, high-floor cornerback that fits Eberflus’ vision perfectly.
This could be the pick that doesn’t get the loudest cheer… but wins in December.
