The Dallas Cowboys may have uncovered a diamond in the rough with their 2025 NFL Draft class, earning widespread praise for their early-round value selections. While players like Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah bolstered their roster in the later rounds, it’s a relatively unknown seventh-round pick who is stealing the spotlight early in his professional career.
UCLA defensive tackle Jay Toia, selected in the final round, has quickly emerged as a standout during Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Remarkably, the rookie has already earned first-team reps, catching the attention of the Cowboys’ coaching staff and analysts alike. His rapid rise is particularly significant given the team’s uncertainties at the defensive tackle position, where former first-rounder Mazi Smith has yet to live up to expectations.
Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski recently highlighted Toia in his list of top NFL rookies who “already look like draft day steals.” Sobleski described the 6-foot-2, 342-pound rookie as “a powerful, old-school nose tackle capable of eating up blocks, resetting the line of scrimmage, and allowing those around him to make plays while he does the dirty work.” This assessment underscores Toia’s potential to fill a critical gap in Dallas’ defensive front.
While OTAs are early and conducted without full pads, Toia’s ability to secure first-team reps signals his early impact. Sobleski noted, “The Cowboys coaching staff has already taken notice of his effort and skills by giving him reps with the first-team defense. Where Toia actually stands won’t be determined until live sessions during training camp.” Still, his emergence has sparked intrigue, especially as the Cowboys search for answers following Smith’s struggles.
If Toia continues to develop and proves to be a hidden gem, he could solidify a vital role on Dallas’ defensive line, addressing one of the team’s most pressing needs. His physical, block-eating style aligns perfectly with the Cowboys’ defensive scheme, making his early success a promising sign.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Toia to see if he can maintain his momentum and transition seamlessly to the NFL. For now, the seventh-rounder’s hot start has Cowboys fans and analysts buzzing about the potential star in their midst.