Who to Watch in This Year’s Senior Bowl for Cowboys’ Draft Prospects
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, and one key event in their scouting process is the Senior Bowl. Set to take place this Saturday (Feb 1) at 2:30 PM ET, the game will feature numerous prospects who could be game-changers for Dallas. Here are ten players the Cowboys should keep a close eye on during the game.
Josh Conerly Jr., OT (Oregon)
Conerly is a standout offensive tackle known for his impressive foot speed and lateral agility. His refined technique in pass protection allows him to mirror edge rushers effectively and adapt to complex blocking schemes. One of his greatest strengths is his versatility as a run blocker, making him a fit for both zone and gap schemes. Interestingly, his background as a high school running back gives him a unique understanding of what it takes to be a dominant force in the trenches. Given the Cowboys’ struggles on the offensive line last season, Conerly is a name worth watching.
Azareye’h Thomas, CB (Florida State)
With the Cowboys needing additional depth at cornerback, Thomas presents an intriguing option. As the younger brother of NFL player Juanyeh Thomas, Azareye’h comes with solid pedigree. He possesses excellent size and fluid movement, traits that suggest he has developmental potential. While he may need time to fully adapt to the pro level, his upside makes him an appealing prospect for Dallas.
Ollie Gordon, RB (Oklahoma State)
Running back is a pressing need for the Cowboys, particularly with the arrival of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. Gordon, a Fort Worth native, offers both hometown appeal and exceptional talent. He thrives in both zone and gap schemes, showing patience and vision in his runs while making defenders miss in tight spaces. At 6’2” and 225 pounds, he has the size to serve as a power back when needed.
However, there are concerns about Gordon’s off-field history, including a DUI arrest. Despite that, his fit within the Cowboys’ offensive scheme makes him a compelling option if the team is willing to look past those issues.
Jaxson Dart, QB (Ole Miss)
Dart is a talented quarterback with a powerful arm but has struggled with consistency. He’s projected as a later-round pick, but a strong Senior Bowl showing could increase his stock. With both Cooper Rush and Trey Lance hitting free agency, the Cowboys will likely be in the market for a backup quarterback to develop behind Dak Prescott. Dart’s potential makes him worth monitoring.
Mike Green, DE (Marshall)
Green has the skill set to be a dynamic pass rusher alongside Micah Parsons. He’s known for his explosive burst and ability to disrupt plays off the edge. While he still needs to improve against the run, his high football IQ and relentless playing style make him a strong candidate for the Cowboys. If Green performs well at the Senior Bowl, he could climb draft boards quickly and become a valuable addition to Dallas’ defense.
Deone Walker, DT (Kentucky)
At 6’6” and 348 pounds, Walker is a physical force on the defensive line. With Osa Odighizuwa’s free agency looming, Walker could be a much-needed addition to bolster Dallas’ interior run defense—a recurring problem for the team. His ability to line up in various positions along the defensive line adds to his appeal. Though still somewhat raw, Walker’s size and versatility make him a promising prospect.
Willie Lampkin, OG (North Carolina)
Lampkin is a developmental player with immediate depth potential for Dallas’ offensive line. His background as a high school wrestler gives him a natural advantage when it comes to leverage and hand-fighting techniques in the trenches. Players with wrestling experience often transition well to the NFL, and Lampkin shows promise in that regard. With time and coaching, he could grow into a valuable contributor.
Jayden Higgins, WR (Iowa State)
Higgins is a physical receiver with an impressive catch radius and excellent body control. His ability to win contested catches and move the chains on crucial downs makes him an attractive option for the Cowboys, who already have CeeDee Lamb as their primary target. Higgins’ skill set as a possession receiver could add a different dynamic to Dallas’ passing game.
Shemar Stewart, DE (Texas A&M)
Stewart’s size and versatility make him a player the Cowboys should consider, especially if they’re looking for someone who can fill multiple roles on the defensive line. He has the potential to improve both the pass rush and run defense. Given his local ties and physical attributes, Stewart could be a great fit if Dallas wants to build a more dominant defensive front.
T.J. Sanders, DT (South Carolina)
Sanders is a young, raw talent with significant upside. His quickness off the snap and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield make him a potential asset for Dallas. While he needs to work on his physical development and anchoring ability, the Cowboys could benefit from investing in his growth. With key interior defenders potentially leaving in free agency, Sanders could be a timely addition.