As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the air is thick with speculation and expert predictions. One of the most intriguing forecasts comes from Jon Machota of The New York Times, who covers the Dallas Cowboys beat. In a bold departure from the consensus, Machota has predicted that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones will opt for Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan with the 12th overall pick, over the much-talked-about Texas speedster, Matthew Golden.
A Strategic Fit for Dallas
Under the guidance of new head coach Brian Schottenheimer, the Cowboys are keenly aware of their need to bolster the wide receiver position. Beyond star receiver CeeDee Lamb and tight end Jake Ferguson, the options are sparse. This gap in the roster makes the first-round pick crucial for Dallas’s offensive strategy.
McMillan’s Edge Over Golden
While many analysts have pinned their hopes on Golden, citing his impressive speed and Texas roots, Machota’s insight suggests a different angle. “Dallas would have to be thrilled with this selection. McMillan gives the Cowboys a certain No. 2 wide receiver to pair with CeeDee Lamb. He would be an immediate impact player, particularly in the red zone,” Machota noted in his final mock draft. At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, McMillan’s formidable presence and athletic prowess could make him a key asset in tight situations.
The Red Zone Factor
The choice of McMillan over Golden hinges significantly on the red zone capabilities that McMillan brings to the table. His size and skill in utilizing his physicality provide an advantage that the Cowboys cannot overlook. “In other situations, he might be asked to immediately be a team’s No. 1 wide receiver. In Dallas, he could ease into the offense, knowing most of the defense’s focus is going to Lamb,” explained Machota.
Contrasting Opinions and Golden’s Confidence
Despite Machota’s strong endorsement of McMillan, other sports analysts like Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports and Chad Reuter of NFL.com maintain that Golden is the likely choice for Dallas. Their projections are bolstered by Golden’s own confidence, demonstrated in a recent interview where he suggested he could have bested his already stellar 40-yard dash time if not for an ankle injury.
A Draft Full of Surprises?
As the draft night looms, the debate between choosing raw speed or a strategic fit like McMillan continues to stir the pot among Cowboys fans and NFL analysts alike. Will Jerry Jones follow Machota’s prediction, or will the allure of a hometown hero in Golden sway his decision? Only the draft will tell, but one thing is clear: the Cowboys are looking to make a splash with their first pick, aiming to significantly enhance their offensive lineup.
Incorporating Tetairoa McMillan could be the strategic decision that defines the Cowboys’ season, potentially turning red zone opportunities into crucial touchdowns, an area they have been keen to improve. As always, the final decision will resonate well beyond the draft night, possibly altering the team’s fortunes in the upcoming NFL season.
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