Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 Free Agency and Draft Needs

To free up nearly $57 million in cap space, Dallas restructured the contracts of Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Unlike last offseason, the team acted quickly this year. Micah Parsons is also due for an extension. However, his price tag has already climbed following Myles Garrett’s new deal with the Cleveland Browns.

Before the start of free agency, the Cowboys also secured a four-year extension with defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa. He has been an essential part of the defensive line. Odighizuwa has started 63 games over his four seasons, including every game for the last three years. The Cowboys also re-signed three special teams players, including long snapper Trent Sieg.

Yes, the Cowboys have been more proactive this offseason, especially with trades. That said, the additions have largely been on the periphery. For instance, Dallas signed running back Javonte Williams to a one-year deal to replace Rico Dowdle.

Sure, these moves help provide depth. However, they don’t significantly boost the Cowboys’ chances of competing with powerhouse NFC East teams like Washington and Philadelphia. As a result, the Cowboys’ draft strategy will be pivotal in addressing these shortcomings and strengthening their roster for the upcoming season.

Here we’ll try to look at the three reasons why Matthew Golden is the perfect Dallas Cowboys fit in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Matthew Golden: The Ideal Fit for the Cowboys

As the Cowboys look to address their offensive needs, Matthew Golden emerges as a prime candidate to fill that void. He is a standout wide receiver from the University of Texas. Golden’s skill set is exactly what the Cowboys need to elevate their offense. He is a dynamic, explosive playmaker who can make an immediate impact. With the potential to be the next WR2 in Dallas, Golden could quickly complement CeeDee Lamb and help take the passing game to new heights.

His journey actually began at the University of Houston before he transferred to Texas ahead of the 2024 season. In his first year with the Longhorns, Golden exceeded expectations. He led the team in receiving yards and touchdowns while earning Second-Team All-Big 12 honors. Yes, Isaiah Bond was initially expected to lead the receiving corps. That said, Golden took control and established himself as a primary weapon. It seems likely that Golden could do the same in the NFL. With a blazing 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, Golden’s stock is soaring, and the Cowboys’ interest in him is palpable. If they want to snag him, they may actually have to make the move at the 12th pick. This is especially true with the competition for top wideouts heating up.

Golden’s impressive skill set aligns perfectly with the Cowboys’ search for an explosive offensive weapon. Note that Cowboys co-owner Stephen Jones has emphasized the need for a dynamic option behind Lamb. Golden is primed to be that player.

1. Elite Speed and Playmaking Ability

Golden’s speed is his most notable trait. It makes him a constant threat on the field. At the NFL Combine, his 40-yard dash was the fastest of any wide receiver. This elite speed translates into an immediate deep threat. It allows him to stretch defenses and create big plays downfield. In his 2024 season at Texas, Golden led the team with 58 receptions for 987 yards and nine touchdowns. He averaged a remarkable 17 yards per catch. His ability to make explosive plays will add a vertical dimension to the Cowboys’ offense. That’s something that has been missing in recent seasons. A playmaker like Golden would provide Dak Prescott with a versatile weapon capable of igniting the passing game in a variety of ways.

2. Versatility and Precision Route Running

In addition to his speed, Golden is known for his exceptional versatility and precise route running. Throughout his college career, he demonstrated the ability to thrive in multiple receiver roles. He adapted to different offensive schemes and responsibilities. His route running is sharp, with quick releases and clean, crisp cuts. These allow him to separate from defenders effortlessly. This combination of speed and technical precision makes him a dangerous weapon in any offensive system. For the Cowboys, Golden’s ability to excel in a variety of roles and adjust to different schemes would make him an invaluable addition. His adaptability would allow him to seamlessly integrate into the Cowboys’ offense. Golden should add flexibility to their playbook.

3. Immediate Impact and Competitive Edge

As of now, the Cowboys haven’t made the kind of impactful signings that could elevate them above their NFC East rivals. Keep in mind that Washington and Philadelphia have both made significant strides to bolster their defenses. This has put pressure on the Cowboys to step up their game. Golden’s addition would immediately address the Cowboys’ need for a dynamic wide receiver who can make an instant impact. His explosive playmaking ability would not only enhance the Cowboys’ passing game. It would also give them a strategic advantage over teams like Washington and Philadelphia, who have invested heavily in their defensive backfields. By selecting Golden in the draft, the Cowboys would ensure their offense is capable of matching up with the top teams in the NFC East.

Looking Ahead

In summary, Matthew Golden’s combination of elite speed, versatility, and route precision makes him an ideal fit for the Cowboys in the 2025 NFL Draft. His ability to make an immediate impact on the field would elevate the Cowboys’ offense and provide them with the competitive edge they need to contend with their NFC East rivals. If Dallas is serious about improving their passing game and adding an explosive weapon to the roster, Golden should be a top priority in this year’s draft.