A Look at Cowboys and NFL History Behind the 12th Overall Pick
The NFL Draft is one of the most anticipated events of the offseason, where franchises hope to secure the next generation of stars to propel them toward championship contention. For teams like the Dallas Cowboys, the draft holds a unique significance, as they look to continue their legacy of success while adding key pieces to their roster. The 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft, in particular, carries a rich history filled with high-impact selections that have altered the course of franchises. The Cowboys, with their storied history, have had their fair share of crucial decisions made at the 12th spot over the years.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of the 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft, focusing specifically on its significance for the Dallas Cowboys. From standout selections to notable misses, we will explore how the 12th pick has played a pivotal role in shaping the Cowboys’ roster and broader NFL trends. This exploration also provides insight into the unpredictability of the draft and how one decision can impact a franchise for years to come.
The 12th Overall Pick in NFL History: A Snapshot
The 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft has been home to some truly remarkable players over the years. From Hall of Famers to Pro Bowlers and Super Bowl champions, this pick has historically been a fertile ground for talent. Some of the most impactful players in league history have been chosen at No. 12, helping to shape the fortunes of both their teams and the league at large.
The first-ever NFL Draft took place in 1936, and since then, the 12th pick has been used to select players across all positions, from quarterbacks to defensive linemen, wide receivers, and more. While some years have seen the pick yield future stars, others have seen teams miss on key opportunities. As with every draft, the success of a pick often depends on a variety of factors, including player development, fit within a team’s system, and the overall strength of the draft class.
Notable Players Selected at the 12th Overall Pick
Over the years, the 12th overall pick has produced numerous players who would go on to become household names in the NFL. Some of the best-known players selected at this spot include:
- Lawrence Taylor (1981 – New York Giants): One of the greatest linebackers in NFL history, Lawrence Taylor was selected by the New York Giants with the 12th overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft. Taylor’s impact on the game cannot be overstated. A two-time Super Bowl champion and the 1986 NFL MVP, Taylor revolutionized the linebacker position and was a dominant force in the NFL for over a decade. His ability to rush the passer and disrupt offenses changed the way teams approached defense.
- J.J. Watt (2011 – Houston Texans): Another defensive standout selected at No. 12 was J.J. Watt, who was picked by the Houston Texans in 2011. Watt quickly became one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL, earning multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards and setting a standard for pass rushers. His physicality, leadership, and work ethic made him a cornerstone of the Texans’ defense for years.
- DeMarcus Ware (2005 – Dallas Cowboys): Ware, a key part of the Dallas Cowboys’ defense during his career, was selected with the 12th pick in 2005. A dynamic pass rusher, Ware became one of the most feared defensive players in the NFL. He recorded 138.5 sacks during his career, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and leading the Cowboys’ defense in a number of seasons. Ware’s career is a testament to the importance of getting the right defensive player to build a winning team.
- Randy Moss (1998 – Minnesota Vikings): Although Moss did not stay with the Vikings for his entire career, he was a game-changer in the league after being selected with the 12th pick in the 1998 draft. Known for his incredible speed, leaping ability, and hands, Moss redefined what it meant to be a wide receiver in the NFL. His time in Minnesota set the stage for a Hall of Fame career, and he went on to break multiple records, including most touchdown receptions by a rookie.
- Chad Johnson (2001 – Cincinnati Bengals): Chad Johnson, also known as “Ochocinco,” was selected by the Bengals with the 12th overall pick in the 2001 draft. A dynamic receiver, Johnson became one of the most entertaining and productive wide receivers in NFL history. He made six Pro Bowls and was known for his ability to make spectacular catches and his vibrant personality.
These selections showcase the incredible value that can be found at the 12th spot. Many of these players were crucial to the success of their teams and became legends in their own right. However, as with any draft, not all picks work out, and the 12th spot has also seen its fair share of disappointments.
The Dallas Cowboys and the 12th Overall Pick
The Dallas Cowboys, a franchise with a rich history and tradition, have also seen the 12th overall pick play an important role in shaping their roster. The Cowboys have made several notable selections at this spot, which have impacted both the team’s success and its future direction.
DeMarcus Ware (2005) – A Franchise Cornerstone
One of the most significant 12th overall picks in Cowboys history was the selection of DeMarcus Ware in the 2005 NFL Draft. Ware, a dominant pass rusher out of Troy, was a key player for the Cowboys throughout his career. His ability to rush the passer and his leadership on defense made him a fan favorite and a franchise icon.
Ware’s career is the model for what a team hopes to achieve when making a high draft selection. His consistency and ability to remain at an elite level for nearly a decade made him one of the best defensive players in Cowboys history. With Ware leading the way, the Cowboys were able to maintain a competitive defense during his tenure, although they were not able to capture the ultimate prize during his time with the team.
The Quest for Defensive Dominance
While the Cowboys have historically used the 12th pick to solidify their defense (as shown with Ware), this spot has not always panned out the way the team hoped. The Cowboys have had a mixed track record when it comes to drafting with this pick, but their efforts have consistently focused on improving the defense.
In some years, Dallas has seen success with defensive players drafted in the first round, while in others, the team has missed on key opportunities. For instance, the Cowboys’ 12th overall pick in the 2009 draft saw them select offensive tackle Tyron Smith, a decision that proved to be one of the best they could have made, as Smith went on to become one of the premier left tackles in the NFL. While this wasn’t a defensive pick, it exemplifies the importance of selecting players who will have long-term success and contribute to team success.
The Cowboys and the 2024 NFL Draft
Looking ahead, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft presents an exciting opportunity for the Cowboys to bolster their roster. While they are a competitive team with championship aspirations, there are still areas in which they could improve. Whether it’s enhancing their pass rush, shoring up the secondary, or adding another weapon on offense, the 12th pick could be a crucial step toward achieving their Super Bowl goals.
With a loaded draft class expected in 2024, the Cowboys could have the opportunity to select a game-changer who can make an immediate impact. Whether they are looking for a dynamic wide receiver, a shutdown cornerback, or a versatile pass rusher, the 12th pick offers a chance to find a future star.
Given the Cowboys’ history of making key selections at this spot, they will need to carefully evaluate their roster and make a pick that best fits their needs. Additionally, with so many other teams also vying for top talent, there could be opportunities to trade the pick for immediate help, especially if another team is desperate for a player in a particular position. Regardless of which direction the Cowboys go, the 12th pick will be pivotal in shaping the future of the franchise.
The Importance of the 12th Overall Pick in Today’s NFL
In the ever-competitive landscape of the NFL, the 12th overall pick is no longer just a spot for teams looking to build their future. With so many teams being in win-now mode, it is also an opportunity to secure a player who can contribute immediately. Many teams in the NFL are in the midst of rebuilding their rosters, and the 12th pick could be the key to finding a player who can help accelerate that process.
For the Cowboys, this pick presents a chance to build on a roster that is already quite talented. With a defense that is already strong and an offense featuring players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, the 12th overall pick could be the difference between remaining a playoff contender and making a deep Super Bowl run.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the 12th Overall Pick
The 12th overall pick has been a source of both triumph and heartbreak for the Dallas Cowboys, as it has been for many other NFL franchises. From DeMarcus Ware to Tyron Smith, the Cowboys have had success with this pick in the past, and they will hope to continue that trend in the future. As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the Cowboys have a critical opportunity to make a selection that could impact their fortunes for years to come. The 12th pick is a spot with a rich history, and for the Cowboys, it could be the key to returning to the NFL’s ultimate stage: the Super Bowl.
