With the 247th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected Tommy Akingbesote.
The Cowboys double-dip at defensive tackle late in the draft.
Overview
Akingbesote possesses the size, length and athleticism for consideration as an even-front three-technique or an odd-front defensive end. He gets off the ball with adequate quickness and has the length to punch, separate and create opportunities. When he’s not first in, stronger guards tend to keep him under control. The sack production is lower, but tape flashes show there is meat on that bone. Akingbesote isn’t ready for the pro game right now, but he has traits and developmental potential if a team is willing to invest the time.
Strengths
Able to strike first and lift blocker’s pad level.
Can shed and tackle when utilizing his length.
Adequate movement in space to stress the offense.
Good stab-and-swim move can quickly beat protection.
Foot agility sets up edge-to-edge rush counters.
Weaknesses
Zone blockers play across his face on the back side.
Has trouble swiping guard’s punch off his frame.
Doesn’t play with strength/hand usage to whip single blocks.
Needs better block take-on versus double teams.
Below-average conversion of acceleration to power.
Cowboys 2025 draft picks:
- Round 1, pick 12 – G Tyler Booker (Alabama)
- Round 2, pick 44 – DE Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College)
- Round 3, pick 76 – CB Shavon Revel (East Carolina)
- Round 5, pick 149 – RB Jaydon Blue (Texas)
- Round 5, pick 152 – LB Shemar James (Florida)
- Round 6, pick 204 – OL Ajani Cornelius (Oregon)
- Round 7, pick 217 – DT Jay Toia (UCLA)
- Round 7, pick 239 – RB Phil Mafah (Clemson)
- Round 7, pick 247 – DT Tommy Akingbesote (Maryland)
Cowboys needs:
WR: The Cowboys need an offensive complement to CeeDee Lamb with Brandin Cooks leaving in free agency.
RB: The additions of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders won’t stop the team from searching for a potential RB1 in this draft.
CB: Trevon Diggs’ injury, Jourdan Lewis’ departure in free agency, and DaRon Bland becoming a free agent next season means the team needs help. The current depth is lackluster.
DT: The 1-tech spot at the moment is Mazi Smith and not much else. Dallas should certainly look to add a draft prospect here.
OL: The Cowboys have most of the line filled in, but there is a chance they want a young player to compete for the right guard position.
LB: The Cowboys made some additions in the offseason to fill a thin position, but they could use another talented young player to put in the mix.
