Overview of the 2019 NFL Draft Context for the Cowboys
On April 25–27, 2019, the Dallas Cowboys selected eight players across seven rounds, emphasizing defensive versatility and offensive line depth. Trading back from the 20th pick in the first round allowed Dallas to net additional late-first and third-round selections, shaping a class aligned with long-term roster needs. This overview summarizes draft context, each selection, and the trades that defined the Cowboys 2019 draft strategy.
First Round: Strategic Position and Trade Details
Original Pick and Trade Outcome
Holding the 20th overall pick, the Cowboys elected to move up to select defensive tackle Dorance Armstead, a high-upside edge rusher from Missouri. In exchange, they sent the 20th pick to the New York Jets and acquired the 22nd and 43rd overall picks. This restructure provided Dallas additional draft capital while still adding a premier interior pass-rush candidate.
- Pick used: 20th overall (to Jets)
- Received: 22nd and 43rd overall selections
First-Round Selection: Dorance Armstead
Dorance Armstead recorded 16.5 sacks over two seasons at Missouri, showcasing power and burst. Projected as a rotational starter in a 4–3 scheme, he delivered a strong rookie campaign with consistent pressure and run-stuffing ability. His production and durability have made him a steady contributor along the defensive line.
Second and Third Rounds: Depth and Fit
Second-Round Picks
The Cowboys used their second-round pick on linebacker Luke Gifford, a versatile defender from Nebraska who showed advanced coverage instincts and tackling efficiency. Complementing this, Terence Steele was selected in the third round, addressing left tackle depth with strong run-blocking and steady pass protection. Steele’s late-round value allowed Dallas to target a premium-caliber tackle without sacrificing early capital.
Complementary Role Players
Rounding out the early rounds, Dallas drafted receiver Jalen Tolbert in the third round, a route-running threat with reliable hands. This selection addressed depth at wide receiver while providing offensive flexibility in young quarterback situations. Each pick reinforced positional needs without overcommitting resources.
Later Rounds: Value and Special Teams Impact
Fourth Through Seventh Rounds
In the fourth round, the Cowboys selected linebacker Reggie Robinson, a physical tackler with solid instincts. Later rounds featured tight end Tyler Higbee, a smart route runner and blocker from Western Illinois, as well as defensive back Donovan Wilson, known for sound tackling and field awareness. Scouting emphasized each player’s special-teams potential and situational usefulness.
- High-effort, low-cost selections
- Targeted positional versatility
- Emphasis on practice-squad and depth value
Draft Trades and Strategic Takeaways
Dallas entered the 2019 draft with a clear philosophy: maintain first-round flexibility while adding impact players. Moving from 20th to 22nd and 43rd allowed the Cowboys to select Armstead without surrendering an excessively high pick, preserving value for late-first and third-round options. This approach balanced immediate upgrades with long-term roster construction.
Comparison of Key 2019 Picks to Draft Position
| Pick | Player | Position | College | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | Terence Steele | OT | Texas Tech | Started multiple games as rookie at LT | Official NFL records |
| 27 | Luke Gifford | LB | Nebraska | Played both inside and outside linebacker | Team media guides |
| 43 | Dalton Schultz | TE | Stanford | Earned starting role in second season | Team media guides |
| 77 | Tyron Smith | OT | USC | Traded to Dallas in a separate deal | League transaction reports |
Early Outcomes and Roster Integration
Armstead and Steele delivered notable contributions during the 2019 season, with Steele starting multiple games at left tackle and Armstead logging pressure snaps in obvious passing situations. Gifford and Higbee provided meaningful depth on defense and special teams, supporting situational packages. These results reflected a draft process oriented toward sustainable growth rather than quick fixes.
Long-Term Roster Implications
The 2019 class strengthened Dallas’s defensive line and offensive line depth while adding versatile young bodies. Steele and Armestead extended starting rotations, reducing turnover risk at key positions. Though not a top-heavy draft, the selections aligned with the Cowboys’ methodical approach to building a stable, high-effort roster. Players like Steele remained core contributors in the years that followed, validating the strategy behind measured investments.
Legacy and Historical Perspective
Viewed years later, the 2019 draft exemplifies value-driven drafting and strategic asset management. By trading into the mid-teens and prioritizing fit over hype, the Cowboys balanced present needs with future flexibility. Armstead, Steele, and complementary pieces helped sustain competitive line play and positional flexibility, reinforcing the importance of disciplined evaluation in modern NFL roster construction.