How Drew Shelton impacts the Cowboys offense

TL;DR

The Dallas Cowboys selected offensive tackle Drew Shelton with the 112th overall pick, enhancing their offensive line. Shelton, known for his strong pass protection skills, is expected to compete for the swing tackle position and potentially secure a starting role in the future.

Key points

Drew Shelton selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the 112th overall pick
Shelton has a strong pass protection record, allowing only one sack
He brings mobility and footwork to the offensive line
Shelton will compete for the swing tackle position
His development could lead to a starting role in the future

Dallas CowboysPenn State Nittany LionsDrew SheltonDak Prescott

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 4: Drew Shelton #66 of the Penn State Nittany Lions blocks during the first half against UCLA Bruins at Rose Bowl Stadium on October 4, 2025 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images) | Getty Images After spending most of Friday with a bucket of popcorn, the Dallas Cowboys were back in the driver’s seat, ready to roll on Saturday, making their first of three selections in the fourth round. With the 112th overall pick, the front office decided to take their first offensive player by selecting Penn State offensive tackle Drew Shelton. During his time with the Nittany Lions, Shelton proved to be a highly reliable presence on the edge. A two-year starter, he played the vast majority of his snaps at left tackle while also logging valuable experience on the right side. He enters the professional ranks with an impressive history in pass protection, having allowed just a single sack in 345 pass blocking snaps. When you look at his tape, it is easy to see what they loved about him. Shelton brings smooth footwork and fluid movement to the field, allowing him to mirror edge rushers effortlessly. He gets out of his stance quickly and has the mobility to get to the second level to secure blocks on linebackers, which offensive line coach Conor Riley will love. This combination of athletic traits will give the offensive staff a flexible blocker who can execute a variety of schemes. He currently lacks elite functional strength and is not the type of player who will simply overpower defenders in the run game. He also has a tendency to telegraph his moves before the snap, which savvy NFL edge rushers could exploit. Fortunately, the Cowboys have plenty of established veteran talent ahead of him, allowing him time to refine his technique. Shelton joins a unit that prioritizes depth up front, and he should fit perfectly into the mix. He will likely compete immediately for the swing tackle spot, giving the team a reliable insurance policy on both sides of the line. If he develops well and adds a bit more power to his frame, he could push for a starting spot in the near future. This is a solid addition to the offense and a pick that carries great importance for the future of the offensive line. Adding a player with good pass-blocking chops in the middle rounds provides the roster with the youth and talent needed to sustain success. This front office just landed a mobile protector who is ready to make his mark, and Dallas fans have every reason to be absolutely thrilled about keeping upright in 2026.

Q&A

What impact will Drew Shelton have on the Cowboys' offensive line?

Drew Shelton is expected to enhance the Cowboys' offensive line by providing reliable pass protection and competing for the swing tackle position.

How did Drew Shelton perform at Penn State?

At Penn State, Drew Shelton was a two-year starter who allowed only one sack in 345 pass-blocking snaps, showcasing his strong pass protection skills.

What are Drew Shelton's strengths and weaknesses as a player?

Shelton's strengths include smooth footwork and mobility, while his weaknesses are a lack of elite functional strength and a tendency to telegraph his moves.