5 players the Cowboys should draft in the first round

1. Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

Rashawn Slater is a very intriguing draft prospect for the Cowboys due to his position uncertainty. Or, dependent upon how you view it, his position versatility.

In college, Slater bounced between tackle spots. In the NFL, he could play either position, but some seem to think he projects more as an interior linemen and center, such as Todd McShay.

Either way, the Cowboys could use him in literally any position on the line beside right guard, which Zack Martin occupies.

At center, the team selected Tyler Biadasz in round four last year, and he played in 12 games in 2020. He could become the Frederick replacement the team needs, but otherwise, Slater could slot into the center role if he plays well there.

At left tackle, the team cannot rely on Tyron Smith at this stage in his career. As the veteran’s career goes on, he has continuously missed time each season. According to Spotrac, Smith is not a scheduled free agent until 2024. But, it is fair to assume he could be cut before that.

At left guard, Connor Williams has played decently since being selected in the second round of the 2018 draft, but even that spot could use an upgrade. La’el Collins should be back healthy at right tackle for 2021 after missing all of last season. He is in the middle of his deal, but the team could look to get out from under that contract soon too.

Right now, Slater getting reps at either tackle spot seems most likely given where the team is at those two positions. If interior plans do not go well, he could make that change if needed.

Drafting Slater gives the team a talented offensive lineman with major potential position flexibility based on need.