7 likeliest draft picks for Dallas Cowboys in second round of 2024 NFL Draft per the data

The Dallas Cowboys are known to struggle in the second round of the NFL Draft but they'll need to nail it in this year's edition after a very underwhelming 

ESPN Analytics counts with a "Draft Day Predictor" that assigns a probability value to prospects who are the likeliest to be taken at any given selection. The mathematical model "is based on prospect grades from Scouts Inc., expert mock drafts, and team needs along with a few other factors. The Predictor considers these factors in proportion to how accurate they have been in the past."

Using this tool, what are the Cowboys' very likeliest picks at 56th? Here they are ranked from one to seven. It's worth noting each of these guys is ranked at below 5% likelihood, so expect the unexpected!

1. OT Patrick Paul, Houston

• Consensus ranking: 67th 
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 62nd

With arms longer than 36 inches, Paul will be a player that will have offensive line coaches drooling over him in the second round. Paul is as raw as it gets though as he needs to improve technique. He allowed nine pressures in all of 2023.

This pick could be specially likely if the Cowboys don't take a lineman in the first round. 

2. RB Jonathon Brooks, Texas

• Consensus ranking: 55
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 79th

The biggest knock on Brooks is that his season ended with a torn ACL last year and that means the Cowboys wouldn't get a good idea as to what he brings to the table until training camp.

But Brooks' vision and patience when running the football is outstanding and would be RB1 as soon as he's drafted. He's that good. 

3. iOL Zach Frazier, West Virginia

• Consensus ranking: 40th
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 62nd

Compared to Tyler Biadasz by Foster, Frazier is a high-IQ center that isn't caught off guard on the playing field. As far as his chances of being picked by the Cowboys, it's certainly a matter of whether or not he'd be available, as many are mocking him in the first round leading u p to the NFL Draft.

4. OT Kingsley Suamataia, BYU

• Consensus ranking: 40th
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 63rd

Once listed as a top "athletic freak" of college football, Suamataia has the measurables to succeed in the NFL despite mediocre height. He's played full seasons at left and right tackle, which could be of particular interest to the Cowboys.

5. OT Roger Rosengarten, Washington

• Consensus ranking: 86th
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 44th

Despite his short arms, Rosengarten has been a riser ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. He's very athletic and shows the power on tape to generate movement with contact. Just like his teammate Troy Fautanu, he masters the snatch trap technique.

6. iOL Cooper Beebe, Kansas State

• Consensus ranking: 52nd
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 66th 

Perhaps Beebe might be what the Cowboys need to spark their run game in 2024, as Foster has an explosive way of describing Beebe's second level game: "Mauler at the 2nd level. Nukes LBs when he builds up speed."

If he learns how to snap the ball, he could very well be a dominant center.

7. WR Troy Franklin, Oregon

• Consensus ranking: 39th
• A to Z Sports analyst James Foster's ranking: 48th

If he makes it to 56th overall, chances are Franklin would be perceived as a major steal. But the Cowboys could go with other options if they want a WR like Malachi Corley, who would be the next name on this list.

A true speedy deep threat, Franklin had a 30+ yard reception in 12 out of 13 games. His size could cause him to drop.