Why Cowboys used 112th draft pick on Drew Shelton and not more defense
· Yahoo Sports
Why Cowboys used 112th draft pick on Drew Shelton and not more defense originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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The Dallas Cowboys have been committed to defense so far in the 2026 NFL Draft.
But with the 112th overall pick, they went to offense.
Their choice early in the fourth round was Drew Shelton, an offensive tackle out of Penn State.
It may not add to the defensive overload they've had going, but it's a solid choice.
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Why did the Cowboys draft Drew Shelton?
Shelton can help serve as protection at multiple spots on the offensive line.
This is what Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram wrote on X:
"Shelton allowed just one sack and 18 pressures in 2025 across 356 pass block snaps. Comes from a balanced run scheme. Will have immediately swing tackle versatility."
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In the fourth round, you aren't necessarily going to get a day-one starter.
But getting a guy in Shelton who can fill in multiple spots as a rookie and grow might help long term.
The Cowboys have had great accolades coming their way for the defensive work they've done so far.
They didn't need a skill position guy, but offensive line depth is underratedly important, and Jerry Jones gets some here.