The Dallas Cowboys offensive line play in 2024 left much to be desired. Both Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele struggled all season, especially in pass protection, and Zack Martin didn’t play up to his normal standards before landing on injured reserve after battling through multiple injuries.
Heading into 2025 upgrading this unit could be a top priority in the offseason. Better play from both their tackles would go a long ways in improving this unit, and possibly replacing Martin, who is now a free agent and possibly mulling retirement, is another issue.
Today, we look at three versatile offensive lineman the Cowboys could target in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 12th overall pick or in a trade down scenario.
To get a better idea of where these prospects could be slotted in the draft, we’re also providing Pro Football Network’s Lead Analyst Dalton Miller’s thoughts from his Top 100 Big Board rankings.
Armand Membou, Missouri
Armand Membou is not only one of “my guys”, but also my favorite offensive lineman in the entire 2025 draft class. He brings to mind Tyler Smith coming out of Tulsa. He’s just 20 years old and plays with a nasty streak that would be a welcomed addition to the Cowboys offensive line.
He also has a versatility to play either right guard or tackle at a high level. He could immediately step in to replace Zack Martin at RG as a rookie or quite possibly replace Terence Steele at RT if they believe Brock Hoffman is a capable full-time starter.
Per Dalton Miller’s PFN Top 100 rankings:
15) Armand Membou, OT, Missouri
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 314
Player Archetype: Freak Athlete Book End
All Armand Membou did in 2024 was face some of the best pass rushers in this class, only to best them in battle at right tackle. However, despite his accolades, Membou’s also receiving the tackle-to-guard treatment, but I’m putting my foot down on this one.
Membou possesses more than enough length and mobility not only to survive but to thrive on the outside. He was on Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List,” and what issues do arise on tape would be magnified, not mitigated, by a move inside (underwhelming core strength/anchor specifically versus sturdier rushers).
Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas
Opinions vary as to what Kelvin Banks’ best position is at the next level. Some still view him as a starting caliber left tackle, while others believe he’d be best served kicking inside to guard.
That though is the kind of versatility the Cowboys like a long their offensive line. Banks could follow a similar path as what Martin did entering the NFL, going from collegiate LT to RG.
He has the required toolset as well as the prototypical size and length to play either position at a high level and could be a longtime fixture along Dallas’ OL.
Per Dalton Miller’s PFN Top 100 rankings:
20) Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 324
Player Archetype: Jump-Set Bully
The Texas offense is an architectural masterpiece. It quickly attacks space while making almost everyone’s job easier, including its offensive tackles.
We don’t see Kelvin Banks Jr. in many traditional pass sets. He rarely kick-steps vertically and is often not even forced into a 45-degree set.
Although he’s a bit more heavy-footed than is ideal for a tackle, Banks makes up for it by understanding his opponent and playing to attack their weaknesses while combatting their strength off the edge. You’ll often see him employing different strike techniques within the same game depending on the situation and which opponent pass rusher is coming off the edge at him.
Marcus Mbow, Purdue
There may not be a more versatile or athletic offensive lineman in the entire 2025 draft class than Marcus Mbow. He played both right guard and right tackle during his time at Purdue and could play either position at the next level in the NFL.
There are also those who believe he could possibly be the best center prospect coming out this year as well. His three position flex could prove to be invaluable for the Dallas Cowboys.
Whether it’s at C, G, or RT he could allow the Cowboys to get really creative how to deploy their best starting five OL.
Per Dalton Miller’s PFN Top 100 rankings:
21) Marcus Mbow, C, Purdue
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 305
Player Archetype: Prototype Pivot
There’s no denying that Marcus Mbow’s game translates better inside, but while most have slated him as an NFL guard, he screams center to me.
Mbow possesses effortless explosiveness out of his stance, but it’s the freedom in his hips and impressively active hands that really scream pivot.