Cowboys 2021 Draft: A Deep Dive

Hey guys, let's talk about the Dallas Cowboys' 2021 draft. This was a pivotal year for America's Team, and the decisions made back then are still shaping the roster today. The Cowboys had some serious needs coming into this draft, especially on the defensive side of the ball, and the front office really aimed to address those. We're going to break down each pick, look at who they took, where they took them, and how those guys have panned out. It's always exciting to see what a team does in the draft, and the Cowboys' 2021 class is no exception. We'll dive into the big names, the sleepers, and whether Jerry Jones and his crew hit a home run or struck out. So, buckle up, grab your favorite snack, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of the Cowboys' 2021 draft class.

Round 1: First Pick, Big Impact?

The Cowboys kicked things off in the first round with the tenth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. This was a huge opportunity for them to grab a game-changer. And guess who they snagged? Micah Parsons, a linebacker out of Penn State. Man, what a pick this turned out to be, guys! Parsons wasn't just good; he was phenomenal. He immediately stepped onto the field and started making plays. His versatility was insane – he could rush the passer, stuff the run, and even drop back into coverage. In his rookie year, he racked up 84 total tackles, 3 sacks, and even an interception. But it wasn't just the stats; it was the impact he had on the entire defense. He brought an energy and a disruptive presence that the Cowboys desperately needed. He went on to win Defensive Rookie of the Year, and honestly, it wasn't even close. Parsons continued his stellar play in his sophomore season, further cementing himself as one of the best young defensive players in the league. The expectation was high for this pick, and Parsons absolutely exceeded it. It's rare to see a rookie come in and have such an immediate and profound effect, but that's exactly what Micah Parsons did. His ability to generate pressure from anywhere on the field, his incredible athleticism, and his sheer determination made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. This first-round pick wasn't just a success; it was a home run that set the tone for the rest of the Cowboys' draft.

Round 2: Building the Trenches

Moving into the second round, the Cowboys still had needs, and they decided to focus on shoring up the offensive line. With the 44th overall pick, they selected Olen Edmonds, an offensive tackle from North Carolina. This pick was all about adding depth and building for the future on a line that had seen some turnover. Edmonds was seen as a solid, physical player who had the potential to develop into a starter. While he didn't immediately jump into a starting role, he provided valuable depth and practice competition for the offensive unit. The offensive line is such a crucial part of any team's success, especially for a team like the Cowboys that relies on a strong run game and protecting their quarterback. Edmonds' role, while perhaps not as flashy as a first-round defensive star, is incredibly important. He spent time developing his technique and getting stronger, preparing himself for opportunities that might arise due to injuries or performance issues. The team knew they couldn't rely on the same five guys every single game, and having players like Edmonds in the pipeline was a smart strategy. He worked hard behind the scenes, learning from veteran linemen and coaches, aiming to make his mark when given the chance. The depth created by picks like Edmonds allows the Cowboys to maintain a high level of play even when faced with adversity. It's these foundational picks that, while maybe not making headlines, are essential for sustained success in the NFL. The coaching staff was confident in his ability to contribute and grow within the system, understanding that offensive line development can sometimes take a little longer.

Round 3: Addressing Defensive Backfield Needs

In the third round, the Cowboys continued to target defensive improvements. With the 75th overall pick, they chose Kelvin Joseph, a cornerback from Kentucky. The cornerback position was another area where the Cowboys needed reinforcements, and Joseph was seen as a raw but talented prospect with good athletic upside. Cornerbacks are key in today's pass-heavy NFL, and the Cowboys were looking for players who could shut down opposing receivers. Joseph brought a physical style of play and the potential to develop into a solid starter. His journey in the NFL hasn't been without its ups and downs, as is often the case with young cornerbacks. He's had moments where he's shown flashes of his potential, making plays in coverage and showing his tackling ability. The transition from college to the professional level is always a learning curve, and Joseph has been working to refine his technique and understanding of NFL schemes. The coaching staff has been patient, understanding that cornerbacks often take time to develop into consistent playmakers. He's been competing for playing time and contributing when called upon, showing his commitment to improving. The goal for Joseph, and for the Cowboys, is for him to become a reliable force in the secondary, capable of locking down opposing wideouts. It's these kinds of picks that demonstrate a team's commitment to building a well-rounded defense, addressing specific needs with players who have the raw tools to succeed. His development is a key storyline to watch as the Cowboys continue to build their defensive identity.

Round 4: Versatility and Depth

As the draft progressed into the fourth round, the Cowboys looked for players who could add versatility and depth to their roster. With the 115th overall pick, they selected Chauncey Golston, a defensive end/linebacker from Iowa. Golston offered a blend of size and athleticism that could be utilized in various defensive schemes. He was seen as a player who could contribute as a pass rusher and potentially add value against the run. The idea of adding players who can play multiple positions is always a smart move in the NFL, and Golston fit that mold perfectly. He brought a high motor and a willingness to do the dirty work, which coaches love. Golston's role has been that of a rotational player, providing fresh legs and energy on the defensive line. He's shown flashes of his pass-rushing ability and his toughness against the run. The Cowboys value players who can contribute on special teams as well, and Golston has likely done that too. His development is about finding consistency and maximizing his potential in the Cowboys' defensive system. He's a player who works hard and gives maximum effort on every snap, which is exactly what you want from your depth players. The ability to rotate defensive linemen is crucial for keeping players fresh throughout the game and the season, and Golston contributes to that effort. He represents the kind of player that helps build a strong, competitive roster from top to bottom, ensuring that the team has reliable options when needed. His presence adds to the overall depth and quality of the defensive front.

Round 5: Future Potential and Special Teams

In the fifth round, the Cowboys continued to add players with the potential to contribute down the line and on special teams. With the 179th overall pick, they drafted Simi Fehoko, a wide receiver from Stanford. Fehoko was a tall, athletic receiver with good speed, and the thinking was that he could develop into a dangerous weapon in the passing game. Wide receiver is a position where the Cowboys always seem to be looking for playmakers, and Fehoko offered a different physical profile than some of their other receivers. His journey has involved getting acclimated to the NFL game and improving his route running and overall consistency. He's provided depth at the receiver position and has shown potential in practice and in limited game action. The 2021 draft class was particularly deep at receiver, so finding immediate playing time could be challenging, but Fehoko's athleticism and size make him an intriguing prospect for the future. The Cowboys often carry multiple receivers who can stretch the field, and Fehoko fits that description. He's a developmental player who the team hopes will continue to grow and earn a larger role. His ability to contribute on special teams could also be a factor in his playing time as he continues to develop his offensive game. The team is investing in his potential, knowing that a player with his physical gifts can become a valuable asset if he reaches his ceiling. It's these kinds of calculated risks in the later rounds that can pay off handsomely for a team. He's someone to keep an eye on as he continues his NFL career.

Later Rounds: Finding Value and Filling Gaps

The Cowboys rounded out their 2021 draft class with picks in the later rounds, aiming to find value and fill specific needs on the roster. In the sixth round, they selected Matt Waletzko, an offensive tackle from North Dakota. This was another move to bolster the offensive line depth, and Waletzko was seen as a developmental prospect with good size. The hope was that he could continue to grow and potentially compete for a role in the future. Later, in the seventh round, they took Quinton Bohanna, a defensive tackle from Kentucky. Bohanna was a big, powerful nose tackle who could help solidify the interior of the defensive line against the run. Defensive tackle is a position where teams often look for players who can plug gaps and disrupt the middle of the offensive line, and Bohanna fit that profile. These later-round picks are crucial for adding competition and depth. While not every late-round pick becomes a star, they can become valuable role players or provide the necessary depth to weather the long NFL season. Waletzko, like other offensive linemen, needs time to develop his technique and strength to compete at the NFL level. Bohanna's role is more immediate, focusing on stopping the run and occupying blockers to free up other defenders. The Cowboys are always looking for players who fit their scheme and have the physical attributes to succeed, and these late-round selections are part of that strategy. They represent the team's commitment to building talent across the entire roster, understanding that every player can contribute to the team's overall success. It's these guys who often surprise and become key contributors, so never count them out!

Overall Assessment: A Draft with a Star

When you look back at the Dallas Cowboys' 2021 draft, it's hard not to be impressed, especially with that first-round pick. Micah Parsons was an absolute game-changer, exceeding all expectations and immediately becoming one of the league's most dominant defensive players. He alone made this draft a significant success. Beyond Parsons, the Cowboys aimed to address needs on the offensive line and in the secondary, selecting players like Olen Edmonds, Kelvin Joseph, and Chauncey Golston. These players have contributed in various roles, providing depth and potential for the future. While not every pick has turned into a Pro Bowler, the strategy was clear: build depth, add talent to the defense, and develop players for the long haul. The Cowboys did a solid job of identifying talent and addressing key areas of need. Picks like Simi Fehoko and the later-round selections represent the typical strategy of taking developmental prospects with upside. Overall, the 2021 draft class is looked upon favorably by many, largely due to the superstar impact of Micah Parsons. He set a high bar, and the rest of the class has had the opportunity to grow and contribute around him. It was a draft that had a clear vision and, for the most part, executed it well, setting the stage for future success.