2025 NFL Draft: 3 versatile offensive lineman Cowboys could target in Round 1

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

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 19 Auburn at MissouriPhoto by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

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

Texas v MichiganPhoto by Caten Hyde/The University of Texas Athletics/University Images via Getty Images

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

Nebraska v PurduePhoto by Brandon Sloter/Image Of Sport/Getty Images

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.

Related Posts

Insider drops not-so-subtle hint about 49ers’ top NFL Draft target

He didn’t come out and directly say it, but Albert Breer highlighted all things between the 49ers and top draft prospect Walter Nolen.

COWBOYS DISCUSS: Why OL Will Hernandez could still be a free agent fit for the Cowboys?

Will Hernandez remains a name to watch. Player acquisition is a 365-day commitment, or at least it should be. To this point in the spring, the Dallas Cowboys have…

Chiefs Playmaker Should Be Worried About Pre-Draft Rumors

The NFL Draft is an exciting time for the Kansas City Chiefs. Players that fans have had their eye on will officially become members of the team this weekend an

Chiefs Trade for Travis Kelce Heir Proposed In NFL Draft

Travis Kelce is not getting any younger. Last season was in fact one of the poorest in the NFL as he failed to reach 1,000 yards receiving,…

Steelers Leak Can Help Cowboys To Draft-Day Trade Steal

George Pickens may be cheap now, but acquiring him via trade isn’t a one-time transaction. Such a deal would cost the Dallas Cowboys twice – first in…

Report: 49ers have made progress in contract talks with Brock Purdy

It seems certain that Brock Purdy will get a contract worth more than $50 million annually, which would rank 11th in the NFL.