Cowboys Scouts Zero In on Arizona State Prospects

The Dallas Cowboys were among nine NFL teams with scouts in attendance at Arizona State’s practice in Tempe this week, continuing their early evaluations for the 2026 NFL Draft. The visit was a chance to assess wide receiver Jordyn Tyson and safety Xavion Alford, who are two players gaining a lot of traction among evaluators. Tyson’s offensive production and Alford’s defensive versatility stood out during the drills, and scouts were given a closer look at their development. For Dallas, the practice added valuable context at a time when the franchise is trying to balance current roster needs with long-term planning.

Balancing Scouting and Expectations

When NFL scouts attend practices, they’re looking for more than highlight plays. Evaluations center on consistency, communication, and how skills translate to the pro level. Alongside the field, this process ties directly into betting markets. Sportsbooks in the U.S. and abroad post odds on everything from the first overall pick to which position a team is most likely to target. These lines shift throughout the college season as reports from practices and games reshape the outlook for top prospects.

Fans and bettors often make use of resources like an esports betting sites comparison so as to better grasp this dynamic. Those platforms highlight who is climbing in competitive gaming rankings, and odds are adjusted accordingly. NFL draft markets, too, react to changing performances and scouting buzz. Both provide a way for fans to measure momentum, and this turns speculation into something trackable and tangible.

That focus on players gaining momentum is exactly why scouts zeroed in on Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, a wideout rapidly climbing into first-round conversations.

Spotlight on Jordyn Tyson

The most notable player drawing attention was this wide receiver, Tyson, who transferred from Colorado in 2023 and quickly became Arizona State’s offensive centerpiece. He recorded 75 receptions for 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, and this strong start in 2025 has fueled speculation that he could emerge as a top-10 draft pick.

For the Cowboys, Tyson’s profile matches an area of need. Questions remain over the long-term future of wideout George Pickens, and Tyson’s size, route running, and production suggest he could be a valuable replacement. The Cowboys, however, may find themselves needing to trade up if they intend to secure him, as projections indicate he may not be available by the time their first-round pick comes up.

Alford Gains Defensive Notice

Safety Xavion Alford also drew interest from scouts. After stints at Texas and USC, Alford has become a leader in the Sun Devils’ secondary. It is this versatility that allows him to contribute as a safety as well as in slot coverage.

Alford is currently viewed as a Day 3 prospect, but his experience and adaptability make him a potential depth addition for NFL teams. For Dallas, whose defense has struggled at times early in the season, adding players like Alford could address specific coverage needs without requiring high draft capital.

Draft Implications for Dallas

Dallas currently holds two first-round picks in consecutive drafts, giving the franchise flexibility in its approach. If Tyson continues to rise into the top tier of prospects, the Cowboys could consider a trade package to move up the draft order. Alternatively, if the team chooses to prioritize defense, Alford and other prospects observed in Tempe may become realistic targets in later rounds.

Around the league, draft capital is increasingly viewed as both a means of acquiring rookies and as leverage in trades. For Dallas, these decisions will shape not only their 2026 roster but also their ability to compete in the seasons beyond.

How Today’s Scouting Shapes Tomorrow’s Cowboys

The Cowboys’ appearance at Arizona State underscores the year-round nature of NFL scouting. With players like Jordyn Tyson and Xavion Alford drawing attention, the evaluations being made now could directly influence Dallas’s draft plans. What scouts witnessed in Tempe will remain part of the conversation as the draft approaches and the Cowboys weigh how best to use their picks.