As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft, the need to strengthen their roster is clearer than ever. Recall that the team fell short of the playoffs last season, underscoring ongoing issues. This is especially true in key areas of offensive and defensive playmaking. With rivals like the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders bolstering their rosters, the Cowboys are facing even tougher competition within the NFC East. To overcome these challenges, the team must make strategic decisions in the draft to shore up their weaknesses.

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.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons (11) celebrates after a sack during the first quarter against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium.
Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

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.