The Dallas Cowboys are no strangers to bold moves in the NFL Draft, and in 2025, they may have an opportunity to do something unprecedented: select three players from the same college in the first three rounds.
Today marks the first installment of a 2025 NFL Draft series in which I mock players to the Cowboys in the first three rounds who all go to the same college.
I was selective with my choices. The only rule is that each player must fill a position of need or upgrade a current position.
With a little strategy and the right board falling their way, Dallas could emerge with a trio of Michigan Wolverines, creating a defensive trifecta that could define their next era.
I know picking any defensive players from Michigan will trigger the fan base and might give most of Cowboys Nation a heart attack, but we must all understand that 2025 is a new year with new players and new evaluations.
Without further ado, here are three Michigan Wolverines that the Dallas Cowboys can select with their first three picks of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Round 1, Pick 12: CB Will Johnson
At pick #12, the Cowboys would have the chance to grab one of the premier cornerbacks in the country: Will Johnson.
A prototypical boundary corner with elite size, athleticism, and instincts, Johnson has been compared to the likes of Patrick Surtain II and Jaire Alexander.
His ability to play man or zone, disrupt routes, and tackle in space would immediately bolster a Dallas secondary that’s searching for consistency opposite CB DaRon Bland, as well as insurance until CB Trevon Diggs returns from injury.
Pairing Johnson with Bland gives the Cowboys one of the best young cornerback duos in the NFL.
The addition of Johnson could push the entire group to new heights, allowing DC Matt Eberflus to be more aggressive with press-man looks and blitz packages.
Round 2, Pick 44: DT Kenneth Grant
Moving into the second round, Dallas could fill one of its most persistent holes: interior defensive line.
DT Kenneth Grant is a physical marvel — 6-foot-3, 340 pounds — with rare burst and power for his size.
Grant was a critical piece of Michigan’s national championship defense, anchoring the middle and commanding double teams while still generating backfield pressure.
The Cowboys have lacked a true difference-maker at defensive tackle for years.
While Osa Odighizuwa and Mazi Smith have shown flashes, Grant brings a different level of impact as a run stuffer and pocket-collapser.
His presence would free up Micah Parsons to attack the edges with more freedom, knowing that the middle of the line won’t be easily moved.
Round 3, Pick 76: DE Josaiah Stewart
With their third-round pick, the Cowboys could complete the Michigan trifecta by taking DE Josiah Stewart, a relentless edge rusher with exceptional quickness and technique.
A transfer from Coastal Carolina, Stewart took his game to the next level at Michigan, thriving in a rotational role but flashing every-down potential.
Stewart fits perfectly into the Cowboys’ pass rush rotation. With DeMarcus Lawrence hitting free agency, there’s room for a young, hungry rusher who can bring juice off the edge.
Stewart’s motor never stops, and under the guidance of defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton, he could blossom into a high-end rotational pass rusher with starter upside.
Why Michigan?
The Cowboys are entering a critical juncture in their quest for a Super Bowl.
The core is in place, but depth and youth on defense are needed to take the next step.
All three of these players were part of Michigan’s 2023 National Championship-winning team, so they know what it takes to reach the upper echelon of their sport.
By selecting Will Johnson, Kenneth Grant, and Josiah Stewart, Dallas wouldn’t just be betting on talent; they’d be betting on culture, pedigree, and the kind of championship DNA that’s been missing in recent years.