NHL
Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon lead way-too-early 2026 rankings
Way-too-early 2026 NHL rankings feature McDavid and MacKinnon at the top.
ESPN News1 min read
NFLFeature
3 players who could be surprise first-round picks for Cowboys at No. 20
TL;DR
The Dallas Cowboys may consider surprise picks at No. 20 in the NFL draft, including cornerback Chris Johnson from San Diego State, who has shown significant interest from the team.
Key points
- Dallas Cowboys have two first-round draft picks this year.
- Pick No. 20 may hold surprises for the Cowboys.
- Chris Johnson from San Diego State is a potential target.
- Johnson has met with the Cowboys multiple times during the draft process.
Mentioned in this story
San Diego State
Chris JohnsonDallas Cowboys
It feels like at this point in time we pretty much have a good understanding as to what players the Dallas Cowboys could be targeting with their two first-round draft picks this year. With the multitude of mock drafts it’s hard to imagine there will be any surprises Dallas could throw our way, however, it’s always a possibility with Jerry Jones.
There’s probably not much the Cowboys can do at No. 12 that would surprise us, but that may not be the case with pick No. 20. There are a few players they could target there who really haven’t been linked to them much. Below, are the players we can see the Cowboys targeting in the latter part of the first-round.
CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State
Chris Johnson is someone who hasn’t been mocked to the Cowboys very often in the first round at just about any point throughout the draft process, but he is someone they’ve shown a significant interest in. They met with him formally at the combine, via a zoom meeting, and hosted him as a 30 pre-draft visitor. He checks all the boxes Christian Parker seems to like in an outside CB and he has the talent/skill set to come and compete for a starting job from Day 1 in Dallas.
“Johnson offers a combination of instinctive eyes and athletic movement skills that allow him to consistently make plays on the football. He should compete for a starting role on day one, while also making an impact on special teams.” – Dane Brugler
DT Peter Woods, Clemson
Peter Woods is a name we haven’t heard a lot in connection with the Cowboys in the first round, despite them showing a little bit of interest in the Clemson DT. If they are looking for a player to come in and fill the need at the 4i-technique in Christian Parker’s personal 3-4 scheme, Woods could be on the top of their list to fill that role. He’s someone to keep an eye on at No. 24 in a trade down scenario, especially considering Cowboys DL coach Marcus Dixon was the one who ran him through drills at Clemson’s Pro Day.
“Woods flashes the ability to win with quickness, strength and hand usage — and the next step in his development for him as to do so more consistently. He offers scheme to versatility, although he projects best as a three-/4i-technique DT.” – Dane Brugler
Q&A
Who are the potential surprise first-round picks for the Cowboys at No. 20?
The potential surprise pick for the Cowboys at No. 20 is cornerback Chris Johnson from San Diego State.
What makes Chris Johnson a candidate for the Cowboys' first-round pick?
Chris Johnson has shown significant interest from the Cowboys, having met with them formally at the combine and as a pre-draft visitor.
How does Chris Johnson fit into the Cowboys' needs?
Chris Johnson fits the Cowboys' needs as he possesses the talent and skill set to compete for a starting cornerback position from Day 1.
What is the significance of the Cowboys' pick at No. 20 in the draft?
The Cowboys' pick at No. 20 is significant as it presents an opportunity for them to select a player who hasn't been widely linked to them, potentially surprising fans and analysts.
