If there is a strength for the Dallas Cowboys, it’s the ability to draft offensive linemen. When you look at their 2023 lineup, the Cowboys drafted their entire starting offensive linemen; from left to right: Tyron Smith, Tyler Smith, Tyler Biadasz, Zack Martin, and Terrence Steele. Unfortunately, 40% of that offensive line is missing with Tyron Smith going to the Jets and Biadasz going to the Commanders. Another reason Dallas must do what they do best: is draft offensive linemen.

Back in 2011, the Cowboys used their 9th overall selection on Tyron Smith and that began years of rebuilding an offensive line that would be regarded as the best in the NFL. It’s because the team drafted offensive linemen three times in four years, and hit with each being All-Pros at their positions in Tyron, Zack Martin, and Travis Frederick. Two of those three are now gone with only Zack Martin remaining.

Zack Martin looks around and sees Tyler Smith as the only other consistent member of this line. Terrence Steele remains on the team and starts at right tackle, but he struggled in 2023 coming off a knee injury. Steele ranks 73rd out of 77 qualified offensive tackles with a 45.4 PFF score. The score is so low mainly because of his 8.6% quarterback pressure rate in 2023, the highest allowed by any offensive lineman with at least 300 pass-blocking snaps.

So a once formidable offensive line is now shaky, at best.

These needs weren’t addressed in free agency. Instead, Jerry Jones kept his wallet in his pocket and expects the Cowboys to continue building through the draft. And while I did believe the Cowboys should have signed a running back in a deep free agent class, I think the right move is to rebuild the offensive line through the draft. Dallas hasn’t whiffed on an offensive lineman in the first round since Howard Richards in 1981. In other words, Jerry Jones has never drafted a bad offensive lineman in his ownership.

Now when injuries arose, the Cowboys used Tyler Bass and Brock Hoffman in the lineup in 2023. Could Dallas rely on Bass and Hoffman stepping up in training camp and earning the starting spots? Yes, but in a pivotal year for the Cowboys, they can’t wait for Bass or Hoffman to develop into a starter.

Luckily for the Cowboys, there is significant depth at the offensive line in this year’s Draft. Most mocks have the Cowboys drafting offensive linemen in the first two rounds. In no particular order, here are the names you should look out for.

Jackson Powers-Johnson, C from Oregon — JPJ is highly regarded as the best center in this class, and it appears he’ll slip to the back half of the first round. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah believes JPJ can be a top 5 center in the NFL as a rookie. That’s high praise and getting Powers-Johnson at pick 24 could be a steal.

Zach Frazier, C from West Virginia — Frazier started 47 games at West Virginia and is also regarded as a pro-ready prospect. Frazier has all the tools including the physical tools possessing strength and athleticism, along with the mental tools for his awareness and toughness. Frazier could be a Cowboy at the end of this month.

JC Latham, OT from Alabama — Latham would replace Terrence Steele at right tackle if drafted. Latham is unlikely to drop to 24, so this would be Dallas hypothetically trading up for Latham. Latham allowed only 2 sacks in 915 pass-blocking snaps, a stat night and day in comparison to Terrence Steele. This pick would also instill confidence in Bass and Hoffman being starters in 2024.

Amarius Mims, OT from Georgia — The Cowboys have a rich history of drafting and developing offensive linemen. If the Cowboys are confident with the coaching staff, they can take a chance on Mims. This prospect didn’t allow a sack in 2023 but has only started 8 games. Mims needs more coaching to fully develop into his 6’8”, 340-pound frame and utilize his nearly 87-inch wingspan. If he gets the right coach and wants to put in the work, Mims might develop into the best offensive lineman in this entire class.

Graham Barton, OL from Duke — The only assurance is Zack Martin playing right guard. Tyler Smith can play left guard or left tackle. Terrence Steele is the weakest starter on the team. Tyler Bass and Brock Hoffman could be reliable backups. What makes Barton special is he can play any position. If you need a tackle, guard, or a center, Barton is the guy. This pick gives the Cowboys the flexibility to see if Bass or Hoffman step up, along with finding the position Tyler Smith is most comfortable playing.

Who do you think Dallas should take at 24? Should they draft another offensive lineman or focus on another position? You tell us in our comment section below.