When we look at the changes along the OL this season, the majority believe the unit will be not as good, mainly due to the loss of Travis Frederick.
Frederick was an all-pro center when he was healthy, but he was a shell of himself from the physical standpoint after his illness. He decided to call it a career, when he knew he could no longer play up to his high standards. The team will certainly feel his loss in leadership and his high IQ making all the pre-snap protection calls. Keep in mind we aren't replacing the all pro Travis, but rather the last year's version of him.
You can look up all the early 2020 mocks drafts and you will find Tyler Biadasz projected as a 1st round pick. Many media scouts projected him as a sure fire day 2 selection this year. His play did dip somewhat after hip surgery, but many believe he will be able to return close to 100%. Make no mistake, Biadasz is a high level prospect, no matter where he was drafted.
Connor McGovern received a 2nd rd grade from the Cowboy Front Office, in which they decided to take him when still available in rd 3. They said it was a blinking light pick, as he was atop of their draft board. Unfortunately, McGovern got hurt in the off-season workouts, in which he had to have a red shirt type of season. He has starting experience at both Guard and the Center positions. McGovern is considered a high level future starter prospect. The two Connor's are both talented players in which the loser becomes a quality,gameday, active reserve player.
Cameron Erving is an former 1st rd selection who has the versatility to backup all 5 positions and easily can spot start if needed. He might be a small upgrade over Fleming as the team's swing tackle, but he offers veteran insurance across the entire line.
Zach Martin was playing hurt all season long. Still was playing at a high level, but probably not on an all-pro level that he has in the past. Probably his worst season as a Cowboy, which is saying a lot, as he still was a pro bowl player at the position. Better health could have him reach those elite levels of production once again.
The depth along the entire OL is the best we have seen in many years. The offense is going to have backups with starting experience that have the versatility to play multiple positions along the OL. Add in the return to the zone blocking scheme in which the OL has been prior success with, the group has potential to become even better.
A lot of young prospects, but with more experience they can become quality, high end starters for the future. Perhaps we will see some early growing pains, but by mid season this group could be very good!