As of October 2024, the Dallas Cowboys are making waves in the NFL, thanks in large part to their 2024 draft class. With key players from the 2024 draft contributing on both sides of the ball, the team’s success this season has much to do with how well their Dallas Cowboys draft picks have adapted to the NFL level. This article takes a closer look at each of the top selections, their impact on the field, and how their college careers set the stage for their professional success.

1. First-Round Pick: Malik Jefferson, Edge (Texas A&M)

One of the Cowboys’ most exciting picks from the 2024 NFL Draft was Malik Jefferson, a standout edge rusher from Texas A&M. Drafted 18th overall, Jefferson was brought in to add even more firepower to an already strong Cowboys defensive front. Known for his quick first step and relentless motor, Jefferson’s college career was marked by 24.5 sacks and 46 tackles for loss over three seasons with the Aggies.

So far in 2024, Jefferson has lived up to the hype. Through Week 6, he’s recorded four sacks and has become a key part of the Cowboys’ pass-rushing rotation. Jefferson’s versatility has allowed Dallas to use him both as a traditional edge rusher and occasionally as an inside linebacker on passing downs, where his speed and strength have disrupted opposing offenses.

2. Second-Round Pick: Xavier Simmons, Wide Receiver (USC)

The Cowboys added more firepower to their offense by selecting Xavier Simmons, the dynamic wide receiver from USC, in the second round. Simmons was known for his big-play ability in college, where he racked up over 2,800 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns in three seasons. His combination of size (6’3″) and speed (4.45 40-yard dash) made him one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in the 2024 draft.

Simmons has quickly carved out a role in the Cowboys’ offense, starting opposite CeeDee Lamb. His ability to stretch the field vertically has helped open up space for the rest of Dallas’ receiving corps. Through six games, Simmons has posted 350 receiving yards and three touchdowns, solidifying his spot as a future star in the NFL.

3. Third-Round Pick: Noah Harrison, Offensive Tackle (Wisconsin)

Protecting Dak Prescott is always a priority for the Cowboys, which led them to select Noah Harrison, an offensive tackle out of Wisconsin, in the third round. Known for producing strong, reliable linemen, Wisconsin saw Harrison anchor its line for three seasons. At 6’6″ and 315 pounds, Harrison was a key part of an offensive line that allowed just 16 sacks in his final collegiate season.

Since joining the Cowboys, Harrison has mostly been used as a swing tackle, providing depth behind starting tackles Tyron Smith and Terence Steele. However, he’s been thrust into starting roles due to injuries, holding his own in both pass protection and the run game. His physicality and technical proficiency make him a promising long-term solution on the Cowboys’ offensive line.

4. Fourth-Round Pick: Chase Evans, Safety (Alabama)

The Cowboys bolstered their secondary by selecting Chase Evans, a safety out of Alabama, in the fourth round. Evans had a productive college career, tallying 135 tackles, five interceptions, and 12 passes defended over three seasons. His ability to cover ground quickly and his high football IQ made him a valuable pick for Dallas.

Evans has seen significant playing time in 2024, particularly in nickel and dime packages. He’s already made a mark with two interceptions and 30 tackles. His versatility allows him to play both free safety and strong safety, giving the Cowboys’ defense flexibility in various schemes. Evans’ development will be crucial for the Cowboys’ defense as they push for a playoff run.

5. Fifth-Round Pick: Terrence Cooper, Running Back (Texas)

With Ezekiel Elliott’s departure and Tony Pollard stepping into the lead role, the Cowboys looked to the draft for depth at the running back position. They selected Terrence Cooper, a hard-nosed runner from Texas, in the fifth round. At Texas, Cooper showcased his ability to power through defenders and was a consistent performer, accumulating 2,100 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns over his college career.

Though Pollard remains the Cowboys’ primary back, Cooper has taken on a valuable role as the team’s short-yardage and goal-line back. Through six games, he’s scored two rushing touchdowns and has been a key contributor in Dallas’ ground attack. His physical running style complements Pollard’s speed and elusiveness, giving the Cowboys a balanced rushing attack.

The Dallas Cowboys Draft Picks Impact in 2024

The impact of the Dallas Cowboys draft picks has been substantial through the first half of the 2024 NFL season. The team currently sits near the top of the NFC standings, with key contributions from their rookies driving their success.

• Malik Jefferson has energized the Cowboys’ defense, providing a consistent pass-rush threat and forcing offensive coordinators to game-plan for his presence on the edge.
• Xavier Simmons has added another dynamic weapon to the Cowboys’ offense, stretching the field and helping Prescott spread the ball more effectively.
• Noah Harrison has shown versatility and toughness on the offensive line, proving to be a dependable backup and potential future starter.
• Chase Evans has brought his ball-hawking skills to the Cowboys’ secondary, further improving an already solid defensive backfield.
• Terrence Cooper has offered power and reliability in short-yardage situations, helping Dallas convert critical downs and keep their offense moving.

Historical Performance of Cowboys Draft Picks

Historically, the Cowboys have been one of the NFL’s best drafting teams. Their ability to find impact players in both the early and late rounds has been key to their sustained success. The 2024 class is shaping up to follow in the footsteps of previous successful Dallas Cowboys draft picks, such as Micah Parsons and CeeDee Lamb.

Parsons, a first-round pick in 2021, has become one of the league’s most feared defenders, while Lamb, drafted in 2020, is one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. These successes have set a high standard for the current crop of Dallas Cowboys draft picks, and so far, they have risen to the challenge.

What’s Next for the Dallas Cowboys’ Draft Class of 2024?

As the Cowboys head deeper into the 2024 season, there will be increasing scrutiny on how the team’s rookies, selected from the Dallas Cowboys draft picks, continue to develop and contribute. While their initial performances have shown flashes of potential, the second half of the season is where the pressure mounts. Here’s a closer look at the expectations for each rookie moving forward and how they’ll need to step up to meet the team’s ambitions.

Malik Jefferson: Emerging as a Defensive Star

Malik Jefferson, the Cowboys’ first-round pick, has already started to make an impact on the defensive side of the ball, but his growth will be crucial if he hopes to solidify his place among the league’s top young defenders. Jefferson has demonstrated his ability to get to the quarterback, but to take his game to the next level, he must improve his versatility. Developing more refined pass-rushing moves, increasing his awareness in run defense, and showing he can consistently disrupt opposing offenses will be key to his success.

As the season progresses, Jefferson is expected to see an increased workload. His ability to adjust to the demands of playing against stronger, faster NFL offensive linemen will determine whether he can maintain his current level of production. The Cowboys also hope that Jefferson’s performance down the stretch will put him in the conversation for Defensive Rookie of the Year, which would not only enhance his career but also give the Cowboys defense a formidable identity heading into the postseason.

Xavier Simmons: A Rookie Wide Receiver on the Rise

The Cowboys’ second-round pick, Xavier Simmons, has quickly become a go-to weapon for Dak Prescott, but his future growth will hinge on how he adapts to defensive schemes that are becoming more aware of his presence. Simmons has flashed big-play ability, but defenses will start to game-plan around his vertical threat. To continue his path toward a potential 1,000-yard season, Simmons will need to diversify his route-running, work on his consistency in catching contested balls, and improve his chemistry with Prescott.

With the Cowboys looking to make a playoff push, Simmons will be tasked with stepping up in crucial moments. As defenses key in on CeeDee Lamb, Simmons has the opportunity to shine in single coverage. His ability to convert third downs and make plays in the red zone could be what sets him apart as one of the top rookie wide receivers in the NFL. Should he hit the 1,000-yard mark, it would not only boost his own profile but also position the Cowboys as one of the more balanced and dangerous offenses heading into the postseason.

Noah Harrison: The Future of the Offensive Line

While Noah Harrison may not yet be a starter, his role as a swing tackle gives him invaluable experience in the Cowboys’ offensive system. Harrison’s growth will be focused on refining his technique, particularly in pass protection. As he learns from seasoned veterans like Tyron Smith, Harrison must develop his footwork and hand placement to hold up against elite edge rushers. His time as a backup will allow him to absorb the nuances of the position without being thrown into the fire too early.

Harrison’s long-term potential as a starter will depend on his ability to contribute immediately when called upon, especially if injuries force him into action. The Cowboys’ success in the trenches is pivotal to both their running game and pass protection, and Harrison’s development as a future cornerstone on the offensive line is something the team will keep a close eye on as they continue to compete for playoff positioning.

Chase Evans: A Rising Star in the Secondary

Chase Evans, the fourth-round safety from Alabama, has already shown glimpses of the ball-hawking skills that made him such a coveted pick. However, Evans’ next steps involve becoming a more well-rounded player in the secondary. His play recognition and ability to cover ground are strengths, but Evans must continue improving in tackling and run support if he wants to earn a larger role in the defense.

As the season progresses, Evans is expected to see more time on the field, especially in critical passing situations where his speed and instincts can make a difference. The Cowboys’ defense will need his ball skills, particularly as they face stronger offenses down the stretch. If Evans can grow into a reliable, versatile safety, he could be a significant factor in the team’s ability to secure a playoff berth.

Terrence Cooper: Adding Depth to the Backfield

With Ezekiel Elliott no longer in Dallas, the Cowboys’ running back rotation looks different in 2024. Terrence Cooper, the fifth-round pick from Texas, has already proven to be a reliable option in short-yardage situations, but the second half of the season presents him with the chance to expand his role. While Tony Pollard remains the feature back, Cooper’s ability to take on more carries and provide fresh legs late in games will be critical for Dallas to maintain a balanced offensive attack.

Cooper will need to focus on improving his vision and burst through the hole to complement his power running style. If he can become a more dynamic runner, Cooper may find himself in an expanded role as the season progresses. His contributions in the red zone and short-yardage situations could make the difference in close games, and the Cowboys will look to utilize him in creative ways to keep defenses off balance.

The Pressure is On Meeting Expectations

The second half of the season is where NFL rookies often hit the infamous “rookie wall,” but the Cowboys cannot afford for their 2024 draft picks to slow down. Each of these rookies—whether they are starting, in the rotation, or contributing on special teams—will be expected to elevate their game as the pressure mounts. The Cowboys have high aspirations this year, and the ability of these young players to continue progressing could be what pushes the team from playoff contenders to legitimate Super Bowl hopefuls.

If the rookies can maintain their upward trajectory, they will not only solidify their roles on the team but also shape the future of the franchise. The growth of these players, particularly Malik Jefferson and Xavier Simmons, could help transform the Cowboys into a team that can contend for championships for years to come. The next several weeks will be crucial in determining whether this draft class has what it takes to leave a lasting legacy in Dallas.

Conclusion

The 2024 season has shown that the Cowboys’ rookies are more than capable of contributing to the team’s success, but the road ahead is filled with challenges. As the Cowboys make their push for the playoffs, the continued development of their 2024 draft picks will be key to their success. With players like Malik Jefferson, Xavier Simmons, Noah Harrison, Chase Evans, and Terrence Cooper stepping up in big moments, the Cowboys have a promising future. If these young stars can stay on track, they could become the core of a Dallas team poised to compete for championships for years to come.