The Dallas Cowboys made a strategic approach during the 2025 NFL Draft, focusing heavily on strengthening their roster in the trenches. Their first round pick, Tyler Booker, a guard, was complemented by the selection of Boston College defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku at the 44th overall pick. Ezeiruaku, known for his substantial contributions at Boston College, is slated to bolster Dallas' defensive line, bringing with him impressive collegiate stats that include 80 tackles and 16.5 sacks in his last season.

Ezeiruaku's accolades, including the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and a consensus All-American, highlight his elite potential. His addition is seen as a perfect complement to star linebacker Micah Parsons, especially given Parsons’ high-profile play style that thrives on aggressive defensive strategies. The Cowboys are clearly investing in a defensive core that could dominate the league while also addressing previous shortcomings in their pass rush.

The Dallas Cowboys' 2023 NFL Draft class has come under scrutiny after the team's previous successes in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The draft included players like defensive tackle Mazi Smith, tight end Luke Schoonmaker, and linebacker DeMarvion Overshown, but the overall impression is that the picks may not match the caliber of earlier selections. Mazi Smith, a first-round pick, has underperformed, totaling only 54 tackles and two sacks over his first two seasons, with evaluations placing him near the bottom of his position. Schoonmaker's rookie season yielded minimal production, and Overshown, despite showing promise, has faced significant injury setbacks. Other picks like Viliami Fehoko and Eric Scott failed to make an impact, underscoring a disappointing draft year for Dallas.

As the NFL draft approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are primed to enhance their roster with another first-round selection. Recent years have seen the team excel in early drafts, adding impactful players like CeeDee Lamb and Micah Parsons, who have already achieved significant milestones in their careers.

In 2020, the Cowboys selected Lamb at 17th overall, who quickly became a franchise cornerstone with 496 receptions and multiple Pro Bowl selections. Micah Parsons, drafted 12th in 2021, showcases versatility, excelling as a linebacker and pass rusher with remarkable stats. Tyler Smith, the 24th pick in 2022, has also made his mark on the offensive line. Mazi Smith, drafted in 2023, is still finding his footing, while Tyler Guyton from 2024 has demonstrated promise despite early struggles.

The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft and have garnered various expert opinions on who they might select with the eighth overall pick. A consensus has emerged around Jalon Walker, a linebacker/edge rusher from Georgia. Given the Panthers' defensive struggles, particularly their lack of pass rush, Walker's ability to fill multiple roles could be invaluable. Meanwhile, tight end Tyler Warren from Penn State has also been projected as a game-changer for quarterback Bryce Young, enhancing the team's offensive capabilities.

Other prospects include Mykel Williams and Mike Green from Georgia and Marshall, respectively, both recognized for their pass-rushing skills. Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M is viewed as a potential high-risk, high-reward pick. The Panthers are clearly focusing on enhancing both their defensive line and offensive weapons, which indicates a robust approach to rebuilding their squad.