Cowboys ‘On Guard?’ Dallas Meets With 'Big' Target at Combine

Former Florida offensive guard O’Cyrus Torrence would add significant size and prowess to the Dallas Cowboys o-line.

While rumors continue to swirl regarding their involvement in a potential ‘big move,’ the Dallas Cowboys continue to keep a sharp focus on the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. 

In fact, it appears that Dallas is showing notable interest in protecting quarterback Dak Prescott by upgrading their offensive line. 

Per reports from the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, the Cowboys are meeting with Florida guard O’Cyrus Torrence. 

Torrence has been a rumored Cowboys’ target for sure some time. Despite some early questions surrounding his quickness in pass protection, Torrence has been a fast riser on the draft boards of several analysts. He is at his best in run blocking schemes, while remaining physically resistant at the point of contact. Torrence’s versatility would allow him to play either on the left or right. He is also fresh off a battle-tested season in the SEC, a fact which was recently recognized as a strength by The Athletic: 

28. O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida (6-5, 337)

Considered a potential first-round pick last year, O’Cyrus Torrence didn’t necessarily need to transfer to Florida. He wanted to prove himself against SEC competition, though, and that is exactly what he did with an impressive 2022 season. Torrence has the play strength and competitive appetite to be a plug-and-play starting guard.

For the Cowboys, All-Pro Zack Martin continues to be a mainstay at right guard, and among the best players at his position in the NFL. The 32-year-old both played and started all 17 games for the Cowboys, logging a total of 1143 offensive snaps. 

However, Dallas does face some uncertainty on the left side. With starter Connor McGovern headed for unrestricted free agency, there has been some speculation that the Cowboys might seek a veteran free agent, or attempt to infuse some youth into the position via the draft. Also, 2022 first-rounder Tyler Smith remains an option. Dallas had considered using Smith at left guard as a rookie. Unfortunately, a late-camp injury to right tackle Tyron Smith forced the team to shuffle the deck a bit along the offensive line. 

In spite of the uncertainty which cloaked the early stages of 2022, Cowboys vice president Stephen Jones told reporters at the Combine on Tuesday that he is confident in his expected group of offensive linemen for 2023. 

Whether Torrence is the Cowboys choice is still a matter of much speculation. Still, it should be noted that a formal meeting is typically an indicator of a team’s significant interest in their services. 

Though offensive line strategy may not always grab the headlines, it is certainly worth the watch as the Cowboys march toward the draft in late April. 

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Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL

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