With college pro days coming close to an end, we are weeks away from the 2022 NFL draft. It seemed like a perfect time to do a mock draft. In this mock, I used the draft tool PFF mock draft simulation to do the first round to the fourth round. So, let’s break down this mock draft for the Dallas Cowboys.
Round One Pick 24, Chris Olave, WR Ohio State
Olave may not be the biggest receiver listed at 6’0”,187 pounds in the NFL combine. However, he showed his explosiveness and quickness by running a 4.39 in the forty-yard dash. He also finished with a 32-inch vertical and a 124-inch broad jump. Overall an impressive combine by Olave and the game tape showed those abilities.
The loss of receiver Amari Cooper to the Cleveland Browns brings the obvious need for a wide receiver. And there is nothing better than replacing a route running technician for another one. That’s the type of receiver you get in Olave, a smooth route runner with great hands. Olave uses his route running ability to implement separation or go deep over the middle for the big play.
Let’s not forget his game quickness to separate from a defender and ability to change direction smoothly. Definitely can be a feature receiver either in the slot or as a Z receiver. Either way, Olave brings value with his versatility, route running, and quickness.
Round Two Pick 56, Dylan Parham, G Memphis
During the first week of free agency, guard Connor Williams signed with the Miami Dolphins leaving the Cowboys an open spot to fill. On day two, Memphis guard Dylan Parham could fill that need at the left guard position.
Parham is a guard with excellent footwork and balance for being over 300 pounds. He utilizes these abilities as a pulling guard and in pass sets to reach his set points. Being a former high school tight end has been beneficial for Parham’s transition guard in two seasons. It almost seems like he’s been playing the position for years.
Although he shows a good temperament in his block, he needs to improve his hand technique to sustain blocks. Overall, Parham would be a good addition to the Cowboys, bringing value as an athletic physical guard.
Round Three Pick 88, Darrian Beavers, LB Cincy
Beavers is a tall, physical linebacker at 6’4” 237 pounds who makes his presence known when he makes plays. Utilizing his size and athleticism to shed blockers to make the tackle. His ability to recognize plays and to slip through blocks makes him a perfect fit on the inside.
Beavers would be best positioned to be a thumper in the middle to stop the run or apply pressure on passing downs. He would be the type of player the Cowboys need to have in this young linebacking core. Pairing him up with Micah Parsons, Leighton Vander Esch, and Jabril Cox could be a smart move.
Round Four Pick 129, Jelani Woods, TE Virginia
Jelani is a 6’7”, 259 pound tight end who has a large catch radius due to his size and length. Woods is a potential mismatch due to his physical nature. His long length to come down with the ball and his versatility to play in-line or in the slot make him a threat anywhere on the field. Another plus to his game, he’s a willing run blocker and will continue to improve.
This week at Virginia’s pro day Woods got his chance to show his skills one more time and improve his draft stock. Woods was able to get some individual work with Dallas Cowboys tight end coach Lunda Wells to show his ability to be coachable. So the interest is there already by the Cowboys. Woods would be an asset to this team as a red zone threat and competitor. With him and Dalton Schultz, these two could make a deadly two-tight end tandem for the Dallas Cowboys.
Which position should Dallas target in the draft next? Comment below and join the discussion!
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