Unexpected NFL Draft Names: Cowboys Insider's Exclusive List

Kenji Nakamura

5 min read

Post on Apr 25, 2025

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Under-the-Radar College Stars Set to Shine

This year's draft class features several hidden gems, and the Cowboys are reportedly eyeing a few. These unexpected draft picks could significantly impact the team's future.

The Small-School Sensation: Demetrius "The Hammer" Johnson, Shepherd University

Demetrius Johnson, a linebacker from the relatively unknown Shepherd University, is making waves. While he lacks the name recognition of players from powerhouse programs, his on-field performance speaks volumes. Johnson consistently dominated smaller conferences, showcasing an incredible knack for tackling and surprising speed. He's a prime example of an underrated prospect with NFL potential.

• Key Strengths: Exceptional tackling ability, surprising speed for a linebacker, high football IQ.
• Potential Weaknesses: Limited experience against top-tier competition, needs refinement in pass coverage.
• Projected Draft Position: Late 3rd to early 5th round. A true sleeper pick in this year's NFL Draft.

This small-college talent represents the type of sleeper pick the Cowboys could snag to bolster their linebacker corps, showcasing a smart approach to finding value in the later rounds of the NFL Draft. This fits perfectly into the Cowboys’ known strategy of finding underrated prospects with high upside.

The Injury Comeback Kid: Marcus "The Phoenix" Riley, University of California, Berkeley

Marcus Riley, a wide receiver from Berkeley, suffered a devastating knee injury two years ago. Many wrote him off, but his relentless rehabilitation and determination have propelled him back into the spotlight. His comeback story is inspiring and exemplifies perseverance and talent. This could be the NFL Draft comeback story of the year.

• The Injury: Torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus.
• Recovery Process: Rigorous physical therapy, unwavering dedication, and strong support system.
• Projected Impact on the Cowboys: Riley's explosive speed and route-running ability could make him a valuable asset, adding depth to the Cowboys’ receiving core. He could prove to be a steal later in the draft. His potential to become a breakout star is immense, making him an exciting prospect for the Cowboys.

Positional Surprises: Filling Unexpected Needs

The Cowboys' draft strategy often involves addressing unexpected needs, which makes predicting their selections challenging. This year is expected to be no different.

The Defensive Lineman Nobody Saw Coming: Anton "The Wall" Petrov, University of Oregon

Anton Petrov, a defensive lineman from Oregon, isn't typically associated with the Cowboys’ typical draft targets. However, sources suggest he could be a surprise pick. His size, strength, and surprisingly agile movement could make him a valuable asset. The Cowboys’ draft needs may hinge on unexpectedly valuing a player like Petrov.

• Why This Pick is Unexpected: Petrov’s name hasn’t been heavily circulated amongst the top defensive line prospects.
• Strengths: Immense strength, surprisingly quick first step, disruptive potential.
• Fit with the Team's Scheme: Petrov could fill a role in the Cowboys’ defensive line rotation, providing depth and disruption. He is a perfect example of a Cowboys draft need that may not be apparent to casual fans.

A Late-Round Quarterback Gamble: Javier "The Prodigy" Hernandez, University of Arizona

The Cowboys may make a late-round gamble on Javier Hernandez, a quarterback from Arizona. This is a high-risk, high-reward strategy that reflects the Cowboys' long-term vision at the quarterback position.

• Potential Risks: Hernandez lacks extensive starting experience, and adapting to the NFL will be a challenge.
• Potential Rewards: Hernandez possesses exceptional arm talent and innate leadership qualities. A late-round selection allows the Cowboys to take a chance without significant investment.
• Cowboys' Quarterback Future: This late-round quarterback gamble could represent a calculated attempt to groom a future quarterback in a low-risk environment.

The International Wildcard: A Global Talent with NFL Potential

The Cowboys are always on the lookout for exceptional talent from anywhere in the world, and this year could be no different.

A Global Talent with NFL Potential: Kenzo "The Samurai" Tanaka, X League, Japan

Kenzo Tanaka, a running back from Japan's X League, represents an exciting international prospect. His skills and athleticism could translate well to the NFL, despite coming from a non-traditional football background. International football players often bring unique skillsets and perspectives.

• Background: Dominated the X League, showcasing incredible agility and vision.
• Skills: Excellent ball carrier, elusive in the open field, possesses good receiving skills.
• Adaptation Challenges: Adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL play will be a significant hurdle.

This global talent might be a long shot, but this could be a truly unexpected NFL Draft name, indicative of the Cowboys' willingness to explore new avenues for talent acquisition. His potential to break into the NFL is a testament to the globalization of the sport.

Conclusion

The Dallas Cowboys' 2024 NFL Draft strategy is shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain: expect the unexpected. This article highlighted several potential surprise picks, focusing on underrated college stars, positional surprises, and even an international wildcard. These unexpected NFL Draft names showcase the Cowboys’ willingness to explore diverse avenues in building a championship-caliber team. From small-school sensations and injury comeback kids to positional gambles and international prospects, the Cowboys are set to make some interesting choices that will significantly influence the team's future. The potential for surprise picks is palpable.

Stay tuned for more updates on these unexpected NFL Draft names and the Cowboys' draft strategy. Follow our page for the latest news and analysis on potential surprise picks! Keep an eye out for more unexpected NFL Draft names as the draft draws closer. We'll be providing further analysis and insights into the Cowboys' potential surprise picks.