Dallas Cowboys: 4 UDFA’s Who Might Be Better Than Their Draft Counterparts

The Dallas Cowboys 2023 draft class scratched a lot of people’s heads from their own perspective value on each prospect versus what was perceived as their biggest needs, despite the fact that they were able to secure players of value in areas of need, even with some spots still up for question.

However, once again, they were able to procure a great signing class of undrafted free agents a year after, about as quality a class as one can ask for. Players like Markquese Bell, Peyton Hendershot, Dennis Houston, Malik Davis, and Alec Lindstrom all have played on the active roster at some point, if not the entirety of the 2022 season.

The reason is that the Cowboys have one of the league’s most respected scouting departments and not only find value in undrafted players but developmental prospects that turn into solid players with extended careers.

This year looks like another quality signing class.

The highlighted player on the list is FB Hunter Luepke from North Dakota State, whom many believed to be the clear best fullback prospect in this year’s draft. Even with the position being used less and less, Luepke looks like he could be head coach Mike McCarthy’s next John Kuhn. Assuming they decide to keep a fullback.

However, in this year’s draft class, it’s even more interesting when you consider that not only are there a number of players who could realistically compete for a roster spot but may actually be better prospects than players who were drafted in the same position.

It shouldn’t be too much of a surprise as this sort of thing happens year in and year out. Most recently, last season, Houston outplayed third-round pick Jalen Tolbert.

In fact, there are four specific players who might actually be better rookie prospects than players who were drafted in the same positions.

Edge Isaiah Land over Viliami Fehoko

There should be a disclaimer here for Land. As fellow UDFA Tyrus Wheat and Durell Johnson are both edge rushers who were either ranked higher in draft circles, as well as being official visits for the Cowboys, it’s Land who has the edge to make the roster.

An athletic freak of nature with the size (6’4″, 230-pounds) who plays with a burst off the line of scrimmage, he plays in the same breathe as fellow FAMU alum and current Dallas Cowboy, Markquese Bell, as a player with multiple talents who can play multiple spots. As both a pure defensive end with his hand in the dirt, a standing edge with three down linemen, and even an outside linebacker (SAM) in base 4-3 looks.

While Fehoko is by far and away the better of the two in run defense and has upside as a high-volume rotational player, Land shows positional versatility and the ability to rush the passer above his competition that could land him on the final 53.

WR Jalen Moreno-Cropper over Jalen Brooks

Jalen Brooks from South Carolina was the Cowboys’ final draft pick but it’s the undrafted WR from Fresno State that’s the rookie upgrade. While the size and physicality of Brooks are his main appeals, it’s the other Jalen that has the edge as an all-around receiver.

Despite his smaller frame (5’11”, 175 pounds), Moreno-Cropper is a much more refined route runner, being able to break separation from the line of scrimmage as well as the second and third levels of the defense.

In addition to his route running, he’s got better speed (4.40 40) and reliable hands, in addition to his play-making abilities after the catch.

What it will likely come down to is special teams, which of these players can be better used to cover kicks and run down the field on returns. As both are likely competing for what looks like maybe only two wide receiver spots, there’s no doubt that Jalen Moreno-Cropper has the edge from an offensive standpoint.

DB Myles Brooks over Eric Scott

Eric Scott’s long length and impressive testing gives him a chance as a day three draft pick to make the Cowboys roster. However, athleticism can only take you so far. While he is able to track the ball, he doesn’t show as consistent abilities to do so as Myles Brooks.

Brooks is an impressive man coverage corner with good ball skills and the ability to play well in man coverage.

However, it comes down to the bare essentials; Brooks has better skills at the moment in coverage but doesn’t have as refined tackling skills as Scott, though he does take good angles to the ball carrier.

Both players’ best chances to make this team will be on special teams, but they will get a chance to show their cornerback skills in the preseason, as Brooks will likely be able to track passes and make a play on the ball.

OL TJ Bass over Asim Richards

Asim Richards offers much in the way of a pass blocker. Reading edge rushers well and uses his hands well to sustain leverage. But does he possess the strength and power needed to move inside if he were to do so?

The rookie from Oregon sure does.

TJ Bass plays with plenty of power, sealing off edges in pull blocks as well as getting leverage and push against down linemen. Creating holes for the running game.

However, when it comes to pass blocking, he can get heavy-footed. Despite his hand skills, he does struggle against quicker, more athletic defensive tackles. However, considering he is competing primarily for a backup guard position, Richards will compete with the likes of Matt Waletzko.

The Dallas Cowboys have an obvious hole at left guard with no certain answer but have a lot of young, untapped talent. Bass already has an edge at a position of need over Richards and will get a real shot versus the likes of Matt Farniok or Josh Ball.

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