We all know by now that the Dallas Cowboys have displayed quite the track record for first-round NFL Draft selections since selecting OL Zack Martin over the flashy QB Johnny Manziel in 2014.
That’s because Will McClay took on an expanded role in the Dallas Cowboys draft process in 2014, and the team’s third-round selections in the NFL Draft have also been a key area of focus.
McClay, who serves as the Cowboys’ Vice President of Player Personnel, has played an integral role in shaping the team’s draft strategy.
His insights have led to a series of third-round picks that have had varying degrees of success, but for the most part, have been great selections.
These players, while not always household names, have contributed in various degrees of success to the Cowboys’ roster over the years.
Cut It Out
This section is reserved for players who did not make it to the end of their rookie contracts because their play was not up to par with the Cowboys’ needs.
OL Chaz Green
Drafted: 2015, 91st overall
Green, who was known more for his potential as a pass-blocker, was expected to help shore up the offensive line.
However, his career in Dallas was marred by injury and inconsistency.
The low point was giving up six sacks in one game against DE Adrian Clayborn and the Atlanta Falcons while filling in for an injured Tyron Smith.
He was ultimately released by the Cowboys in 2018, making him one of the more disappointing third-round picks during McClay’s tenure.
CB Nahshon Wright
Drafted: 2021, 99th overall
The Cowboys’ 2021 third-round selection of CB Nahshon Wright was met with mixed results.
While he had limited playing time, the Cowboys’ defensive staff under former DC Dan Quinn was still high on his potential.
Although an intriguing prospect, Wright was traded to the Minnesota Vikings before the 2024 season.
Second Chances
Not every player selected in the NFL Draft is guaranteed a second contract in the NFL.
Most are happy to make it to the end of their rookie contracts and hit free agency, but some players were re-signed to second contracts to remain in Dallas.
CB Jourdan Lewis
Drafted: 2017, 92nd overall
Jourdan Lewis, selected 92nd overall in 2017, was one of McClay’s better picks.
The Michigan cornerback quickly became a staple in the Cowboys’ secondary, known for his tenacity, ball skills, and ability to make plays at key moments.
His high football IQ and ability to cover effectively in a variety of coverages made him a key puce of the defense.
Lewis left for Jacksonville on a contract much richer than the Cowboys could offer, further enforcing how great of a pick it was for McClay.
WR Michael Gallup
Drafted: 2018, 81st overall
One of the most successful third-round picks during McClay’s tenure was the selection of WR Michael Gallup in 2018.
Gallup quickly established himself as one of Dak Prescott’s top targets, providing the Cowboys with a strong outside receiving threat.
His ability to make contested catches and stretch the field made him a crucial asset to the offense.
He was an integral part of the receiving corps until his unfortunate knee injury, but it doesn’t diminish the fact it was a great pick by McClay.
DT Osa Odighizuwa
Drafted: 2021, 75th overall
In 2021, the Cowboys selected DT Osa Odighizuwa out of UCLA.
Osa’s high motor and pass-rushing ability immediately stood out, making him an exciting addition to the Cowboys’ defensive line.
After 13.5 sacks in four seasons, his development was rewarded by commitment from the Dallas Cowboys.
Osa signed a new contract this offseason, securing his stay in Dallas for the next three years.
Jumping Ship
Some players finish out their rookie contracts with the Cowboys, and are good enough to receive second contracts, but do so with other teams.
Draft picks being signed by other teams when their contracts expire is another example of notable selections by McClay and his staff.
DT Maliek Collins
Drafted: 2015, 67th overall
The Cowboys hit a much-needed success with their third-round pick in 2015, selecting DT Maliek Collins out of Nebraska.
Collins was a standout player on the defensive line and provided the Cowboys with a consistent interior presence.
While Collins played a crucial role in the Cowboys’ defense for several years, he left the team for the Las Vegas Raiders, and has recorded 30.5 career sacks.
OG Connor McGovern
Drafted: 2019, 90th overall
The Cowboys selected OL Connor McGovern from Penn State in 2019, aiming to solidify the interior of their offensive line.
While McGovern didn’t develop into a full-time starter, he showed value as a backup, earning him a second contract with the Buffalo Bills.
DT Neville Gallimore
Drafted: 2020, 82nd overall
Neville Gallimore, a defensive tackle from Oklahoma, was chosen by the Cowboys in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Gallimore brought a powerful presence to the defensive line and showed flashes of promise early in his career.
His ability to play both the run and the pass made him a valuable addition to the Cowboys’ front seven.
While injuries limited his impact at times, Gallimore was a solid piece of the defense, earning him a second contract with the Los Angeles Rams.
DL Chauncey Golston
Drafted: 2021, 84th overall
Golston, another third-round pick from 2021, was selected to strengthen the Cowboys’ defensive line depth.
While his development was gradual, Golston provided solid rotational snaps at every position across the defensive line.
The New York Giants saw this potential, and signed him to a contract this offseason.
To Be Determined
The jury is still out on players who still have time to show us what they bring to the team.
WR Jalen Tolbert will be on the hot seat for 2025, and likely expected to play a larger role in the offense unless a young draft pick can supplant him as WR2.
LB DeMarvion Overshown was emerging as a star before tearing the ACL in his knee in the middle of the season.
Once he returns, we can only hope he can continue his rapid development into one of the best young linebackers in the NFL.
The 2024 third-round draft class of C Cooper Beebe and LB Marist Liufau both played large roles this past season.
Surely, they will also be counted on to make the leap in their sophomore seasons.