By Blessing 
Coming off a 7-10 season, the Dallas Cowboys secured the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This marks their highest first-round selection since 2021 when they landed All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons. Now, heading into the draft, Dallas is focused on finding another impact player to bolster its roster.
The Cowboys have several key needs to address this offseason. They could use a No. 2 edge rusher to pair with Parsons, reinforcements on the offensive line, and additional playmakers to support quarterback Dak Prescott. However, the 2025 draft class lacks the same depth of elite talent as previous years, particularly at edge rusher and wide receiver. Additionally, while free agency could help fill some gaps, Dallas has historically been conservative when it comes to spending on outside talent.
Despite these uncertainties, the Cowboys seem to have a preferred position in mind for their first pick. According to Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline, the team’s front office “would love for a top receiver” to fall to them at No. 12. One name to watch is Tetairoa McMillan, a standout wide receiver from Arizona.
McMillan is widely regarded as the top receiver in the 2025 draft class and has drawn comparisons to Atlanta Falcons wideout Drake London. His playing style would make him a great complement to CeeDee Lamb, giving Prescott a dynamic duo—Lamb as a quick separator and YAC threat, and McMillan as a towering 6-foot-5 target on the outside.
As for where McMillan might be drafted, opinions vary. Some early mock drafts have him going as high as No. 4 to the New England Patriots, while others project him to be available beyond the 14th pick. The NFL Scouting Combine at the end of February will play a crucial role in determining his final draft stock. If McMillan is still on the board when the Cowboys are on the clock, Dallas may have the opportunity to land a game-changing offensive weapon.