It was an interesting weekend for the Dallas Cowboys, but the front office reeled in a haul of rookies to help improve the roster. We'll see how it all plays out, as Dallas has a solid chance of winning the NFC East again. However, they'll need some rookies to step up right away. We dive into the Cowboys 2022 NFL Draft class and provide grades for each pick.
The offensive line needed addressing and the front office made sure to do just that. Depending on how the rookies develop, they could make an immediate impact. Even so, the Cowboys made some risky picks that will either pay off or fail. Keep an eye on this franchise, as this team is doing everything possible to make their first Super Bowl since 1995.
With that said, here are our grades for the Cowboys 2022 NFL Draft class.
Dallas Cowboys 2022 NFL Draft Grades
Round 1 Pick 24 Overall – Tyler Smith: B
Tyler Smith is a solid prospect who has the potential to be a consistent starter for years. The Cowboys needed to bring in an exciting rookie to improve the offensive line and they did just that. However, Smith's injury history coupled with his need to develop brings his grade down from an A to a B.
He is well past dealing with Blount's disease, but there are still some concerns regarding Tyler Smith's longevity. We'll see how his career plays out, but he's in a solid situation in Dallas. The Cowboys can likely give him some time to develop until he's ready for a starting role.
Round 2 Pick 56 Overall – Sam Williams: B+
Dallas has a solid defense as it is but bringing in an edge rusher like Sam Williams is massive. The Cowboys have stud athletes in all three levels of the defense and should be a stout group in 2022. Williams is an excellent prospect who could earn a starting role out of training camp. The former Ole Miss defensive end should be a solid contributor from the jump.
Round 3 Pick 88 Overall – Jalen Tolbert: A-
The Cowboys have made some changes to the wide receiver group. With Amari Cooper gone, CeeDee Lamb and Michael Gallup aim to be the top two options. However, veteran James Washington and Jalen Tolbert should find a solid role in the offense. Washington wasn't a consistent pass option during his tenure with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which opens up the opportunity for Tolbert to win the slot receiver job.
He's coming out of a small football program, however, Tolbert produced big-time numbers. Between his 2020-2021 seasons, Jalen Tolbert racked up 146 receptions, 2,559 receiving yards, and 16 touchdowns. The Cowboys found a solid receiver in the third round who might just be their best pick made in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Round 4 Pick 129 Overall – Jake Ferguson: B+
Dallas needed some depth at tight end, so it was a smart decision to select Jake Ferguson in the fourth round. Ferguson wasn't the best tight end prospect in the draft, but his collegiate career was solid. The Cowboys are likely to give him the backup role, which will allow him to develop more as a blocker. Keep an eye on this kid, as he is in a great situation to have a long-tenured career in the league.
Round 5 Pick 155 Overall – Matt Waletzko: B
Matt Waletzko is another offensive lineman the Cowboys acquired in the 2022 NFL Draft. He needs time to develop but could earn a role as a swing tackle in his rookie year. That would be the ideal situation, as it would provide Waletzko with much-needed experience while giving Dallas the depth they need in the trenches.
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Round 5 Pick 167 Overall – DaRon Bland: C+
It never hurts to have multiple cornerbacks on a roster, as it has become a premium position in the NFL. Even so, the Cowboys don't need any more players in the secondary. They have a crowded group and it will be difficult for DaRon Bland to climb the depth chart. Regardless, Bland has the potential to be a special teams expert for Dallas. Additionally, he can be a nice backup in case any injuries plague the secondary.
Round 5 Pick 176 Overall – Damone Clark: C+
With the Cowboys' defense stacked, they didn't need to take a linebacker in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. Regardless, they found a decent athlete in Damone Clark. We'll see how he contributes in the upcoming season. However, it's more likely most of his playing time will be on special teams.
Round 5 Pick 178 Overall – John Ridgeway: B+
Dallas reeled in a big-bodied defensive tackle late in the draft. It'll be interesting to see how he develops in the league, but he could earn a role in certain packages. John Ridgeway might earn playing time in short-yardage situations, as he can plug run lanes efficiently.
Round 6 Pick 193: Devin Harper: C+
The Cowboys double-dipped at linebacker in the 2022 NFL Draft. Devin Harper must develop his game if he hopes to earn playing time on the defense. Even so, he's in a similar situation as Damone Clark, as Harper will likely be competing for a roster spot on special teams as well.
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