Analyzing the Athleticism of the Dallas Cowboys' 2026 NFL Draft Class: A Look at Kent Lee Platte's Relative Athletic Score (RAS)
The Dallas Cowboys' 2026 NFL Draft class is characterized by exceptional athleticism, with the majority of their picks displaying above-average athletic abilities. Kent Lee Platte's Relative Athletic Score (RAS) highlighted five draft picks with impressive scores of 8.5 or higher, led by edge rushers Malachi Lawrence (9.95) and Jaishawn Barham (8.83). Barham's score increased to 9.52 when considered as a linebacker. Safety Caleb Downs did not receive a score due to missing measurements, while defensive lineman LT Overton had scores of 2.47 as an edge rusher and 7.15 as a defensive tackle.
The RAS metric aims to assess a player's athletic prowess relative to their position by comparing their measurements and workout results to players from 1987 onwards. It considers body measurables like height and weight, as well as performance in drills such as the 40-yard dash and vertical and broad jumps. RAS provides a comprehensive evaluation through composite size, speed, and explosion grades, offering a ranking based on historical data dating back to 1987.
While RAS is not the definitive measure of a player's athleticism, it is a respected tool for evaluating athletic potential. The Cowboys' 2026 draft class exemplifies a commitment to selecting athletically gifted prospects, setting a strong foundation for future success.