It has now been a week since the release of Dez Bryant. There was talk before this transaction that the Cowboys could go after a receiver with the 19th pick. So, now without Dez, that makes that pick more likely. But, obviously that pick could still go a few different directions with some of the guys that should be available at 19 lining up with the Cowboys needs.

Current Depth Chart

WR1: Allen Hurns
WR2: Terrance Williams (currently recovering from foot surgery)
Slot: Cole Beasley/Ryan Switzer
Others: Noah Brown, Deonte Thompson, Lance Lenoir, KD Cannon

My thoughts: Ryan Switzer is the guy that should get more looks in this offense in 2018. He is a quick, shifty guy that can get open at will. That type of receiver fits more with Dak’s style. Dak’s strength is not turning the ball over and throwing more underneath routes where guys are open. To do that, you have to have shifty guys like a Cole Beasley or Switzer. The offense also needs to make Elliott more of a receiving option in 2018.

Three Other Needs in the Draft

Left Guard
Safety
Linebacker

My Thoughts: Wide receiver is obviously a need for the Cowboys. I would rank these three ahead of receiver. In 2017, the offensive line took a huge step back and the biggest flaw was at left guard and the health of Tyron Smith. Everyone remembers the Atlanta game last year where Dak got sacked eight times. The Cowboys have made strides during the off-season to prevent that from ever happening again and they should continue down that path in the draft.

Linebacker is second because of the way the defense performed without their leader, Sean Lee and with the loss of Anthony Hitchens. Jaylon Smith is still a bit of an unknown as well.

Then, you have safety. Byron Jones has moved back to corner this offseason so that became an even bigger need. This is a need that I could see being filled via trade instead of the draft.

Three Wide Receiver Prospects That Could Be Available After the First Round

Christian Kirk – Texas A&M
James Washington – Oklahoma State
Michael Gallup – Colorado State

My Thoughts: When you look at the current receiver room you don’t think “Dak friendly,” which is what the Cowboys have preached all off-season. The truth about the Cowboys offense is that it goes as the offensive line and Ezekiel Elliott go, so having good receivers is important but it’s not necessarily the most important thing in this offense. These three guys could come in and fill a role for Dak in 2018, without having to use a first round resource.