Pro Football Focus: Dallas Cowboys Projected to Grab Nation's Top enter

Pro Football Focus’ Cris Collinsworth projects the Cowboys to select the premiere offensive center to fortify their offensive line

Chris Pirrone | Apr 25, 2024

Oct 14, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson (58) / Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

In his last 2024 NFL mock draft for Pro Football Focus, Cris Collinsworth predicted the Cowboys will select offensive center Jackson Powers-Johnson from the University of Oregon at the 24th pick of the first round on Thursday night. Powers-Johnson is arguably the best interior offensive line prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Collinsworth Analysis

Collinsworth opined that the selection "fills a glaring hole" for the Cowboys who saw lineman Tyron Smith, the starting left tackle and Tyler Biadasz, the starting center, depart.

Collinsworth loved Power-Johnson size and toughness inside, stating that "he's not a Jason Kelce–like athlete, but he is quick and can get to second blocks with a powerful first punch and bounce to second level. At 324 pounds, he is a force inside as defenses go smaller. He loves to get quick rib shots on engaged defenders before moving to his next block. Despite his size, he rarely gets out-quicked inside."

He is projected Johnson-Powers to be a day one starter and Collingsworth noted his leadership skills, identifying him as "the clear leader of any offensive line."