Cowboys' Draft Busts: A Decade of Missed Opportunities

0:00On April 4, Dallas Cowboys fans know the team drafts solid most years, but they've had some real busts over the last 10 years that sting deep. We're talking first and second round picks that flopped hard like Taco Charlton. Their number 28 overall edge rusher back in 2017, who never lived up to the hype. Tristan Hill at 58 in 2019 and Kelvin Joseph at 44 in 2021 followed suit, leaving big holes on, defense. The real pain comes from missing premium spots early, where one swing can change everything. Guys like Mazzie Smith taken 26 overall in 2023 as a defensive tackle, barely moved the needle. Second round tied in Luke Schoomaker at 58 that same year showed flashes, but not the impact you expect for that value. Fans still grab about these because the Cowboys needed those positions, bad edge rush, corners, interior line, and got almost nothing back. Instead of building a dynasty, they watch teams like Pittsburgh, Snag, TJ Watt,

1:03right after Charlton, or Kansas City Grapp studs later in rounds. Lower picks like fourth rounders, Viliamy Fahoko Jr. in 2023, or Reggie Robinson, the second in 2020 hurt less, but they pile up when death gets thin late in seasons. Third round Neville Gala Moore and Nashon Wright gave moments but no foundation. These misses highlight why Dallas can't afford early whiffs, but with smart free agency and late round gems, their still contenders keeps the hope. Alive for the next draft class to flip the script.