The Dallas Cowboys continued their 2025 NFL Draft strategy by selecting Ajani Cornelius, an offensive lineman from Oregon, with the 204th overall pick. With this addition, Dallas aims to strengthen its offensive front amid significant roster changes and evolving team needs. Let’s break down Cornelius’ profile, his fit for the Cowboys, and what this selection means for the franchise’s outlook.

Who Is Ajani Cornelius?

Ajani Cornelius arrives in Dallas as a seasoned right tackle with four years of collegiate starting experience. He made his mark at Oregon, showcasing durability, solid size, and a strong work ethic. Although Cornelius lacks some eye-catching moments on tape, his consistency and understanding of fundamental blocking make him a reliable prospect for depth and competition.

• Height/Weight: Well-proportioned with a broad waist and lower-body heft.
• Strengths: Noted for his run-blocking ability, Cornelius uses his hips effectively and rolls through angle blocks. He can set a late anchor and displays clean movement as a lead blocker.
• Areas to Develop: Foot quickness and hand placement need improvement, especially when adjusting to NFL-caliber edge rushers. His leverage and control can be inconsistent, particularly against more powerful defensive linemen.

Scouting Report: Cornelius’ Role With the Cowboys

The Cowboys’ offensive line faced questions after recent departures and shifting depth. Adding Ajani Cornelius is a deliberate move to bolster competition, particularly at right guard and tackle. As detailed in a scouting breakdown by Blogging The Boys, Cornelius stands out for his size, experience, and ability to neutralize defenders in confined spaces. He’s expected to provide immediate depth and compete for snaps in a rapidly evolving offensive unit.

Some highlights from his draft profile:

• Impressive reach and long arms that help with initial hand fights.
• Ability to cover up defenders and maintain blocks when his technique is sharp.
• Needs better consistency with pad level to avoid losing leverage.

The 2025 NFL Draft: Cowboys’ Broader Strategy

The Dallas Cowboys approached the 2025 NFL Draft with clear priorities: reinforcing both lines and addressing skill positions. With their selection of Cornelius in the sixth round, the Cowboys continued a pattern of targeting players with significant starting experience and developmental upside.

Their 2025 draft picks include:

• Tyler Booker (Round 1, G, Alabama)
• Donovan Ezeiruaku (Round 2, DE, Boston College)
• Shavon Revel (Round 3, CB, East Carolina)
• Ajani Cornelius (Round 6, OL, Oregon)

This approach aligns with recent draft recaps, highlighting how Dallas addressed needs at running back, linebacker, and both lines while setting up fresh competition in multiple units.

For a complete overview of all Day 3 activity, player grades, and post-draft signings, check out the full draft reactions and analysis on The Athletic.

What’s Next for Ajani Cornelius in Dallas?

Ajani Cornelius enters a Cowboys locker room that values versatility and toughness in its offensive linemen. While he may initially project as a backup, his experience and physical qualities provide coaches with flexibility heading into training camp. If Cornelius refines his technique and adapts to the professional game's speed, he could push for a larger role sooner than expected.

His selection signals Dallas' ongoing commitment to deepening their roster and fostering healthy competition at key spots. With Cornelius in the mix, the Cowboys’ rebuilt offensive line is poised to protect the quarterback and fuel a revitalized run game.

Final Thoughts

Ajani Cornelius represents more than just a draft pick. For the Cowboys, he’s part of a focused strategy to build a formidable, deep, and competitive team for 2025 and beyond. As preseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Cornelius’ transition from Oregon star to key NFL contributor. Cowboys fans can expect a battle in the trenches — and Cornelius is ready to make his mark.