One of the greatest draft hauls of the twenty-first century was the Dallas Cowboys’ 2005 class.

Determining the greatest Dallas Cowboys draft class in team history is a matter of debate, with a few notable contenders vying for the title.

For years, the 1975 draft class, known as the Dirty Dozen, held the spotlight. This group, headlined by Randy White and Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson, played a significant role in the Cowboys’ early Super Bowl successes, including their victory in Super Bowl XII.

Another strong contender is the 1964 draft class, which produced three Pro Football Hall of Fame members: Mel Renfro, Bob Hayes (also known as Bullet Bob), and Roger Staubach. Staubach’s delayed arrival due to military service slightly complicates the comparison, but it’s still a compelling argument.

In more recent times, the 2016 draft class, featuring Ezekiel Elliott and Dak Prescott, initially seemed promising. However, with hindsight, it falls short compared to historical standards.

In the 21st century, one draft class stands out above the rest: the 2005 Dallas Cowboys. This class recently earned recognition as one of the best across the entire NFL since 2000, ranking eighth overall according to ESPN.

Led by future Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware, the 2005 draft class showcased depth and talent across multiple positions. Ware, selected 11th overall, became a defensive powerhouse, earning numerous accolades during his

tenure with the Cowboys and later with the Broncos. Marcus Spears, the other first-round pick, enjoyed a successful career in Dallas before transitioning to broadcasting.

Other notable selections from the class include Kevin Burnett, Marion Barber III, Chris Canty, Rob Petitti, and Jay Ratliff. Ratliff, a seventh-round steal, emerged as a key player on the Cowboys’ defensive line, earning Pro Bowl honors and establishing himself as one of the team’s best late-round finds.

While the 2005 draft class may not boast the same household names as some other drafts, its impact on the Cowboys’ success and its depth of talent make it a standout in franchise history.