Mock Draft 1.0 – Dallas Cowboys Get Offensive
The Combine is in the books, and thus starts the downhill drive into the 2013 NFL Draft. This is every fan’s favorite time of year when all of the possibilities seem endless and optimism can overtake you with a swift force. I don’t believe in creating Mock Drafts before The Combine, I just don’t feel that things become clear enough until the drills are complete.
The beauty of Mock Drafts is that they allow you to create the ultimate picks for your favorite team. Not every pick may be realistic but the chances are higher than that of predicting Free Agency. Over the past several weeks I have pondered upon so many different variations of this year’s draft for our beloved Dallas Cowboys. After all, so many needs require so much attention you can easily understand the many ideas shuffling in the brain.
This year’s draft will be infested with many positions of need for The Dallas Cowboys, and even better news suggests that this year’s draft will be significantly deep in those areas. For this first of many Mock Drafts I will be inclined to release, I have decided to stay put and pick prospects where The Cowboys currently hold selections. So without further ado, here are my selections for this year’s draft (and as always it is subject to change.):
Nov 11, 2012; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones (center) talks with COO/EVP Stephen Jones (left) and EVP Jerry Jones, Jr. (right) prior to playing the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. The Cowboys defeated the Eagles 38-23. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
18. Jonathan Cooper OG- North Carolina: Very athletic and agile, is very hard to beat in pass protection. He possesses a lot of attitude especially when challenged and often springs out of his step to catch linebackers. Perfect fit for this ailing offensive line and would make an immediate impact.
47.Jonathan Hankins DT- Ohio State: This prospect is intriguing due to his rare agility. His awareness is very strong and often plays a part in his knack for blowing play up behind the line of scrimmage. He has proven ability to be good at stopping the run as well has very good footwork. He’s often known to bully his blockers and get to the ball. Can play both inside and outside but would most likely be a 3 Tech in Kiffin’s 4-3 Dallas 2 Defense.
80. Menelik Watson OT- Florida State: An ol’ English chap, ranks up with the best at his position. Some have doubts about his love for football but he has tremendous upside and is quick on his feet. Another intriguing talent is his quickness as well as his strength. He plays with power and could definitely go a long way in getting this running game revived.
111. Le’Veon Bell HB- Michigan State: This prospect is very hard to bring down. He has the ability to be the workhorse back that can stay grounded; even after he has initial contact. DeMarco Murray is the man in Dallas, but Bell could help in case Murray was to be missing a couple of games. He has acceleration that often puts defenders off balance, besides if he is there in the 4th, it’s a solid pick.
144. Braxton Cave C- Notre Dame: Very strong at the point of attack which is a major plus, but does have some footwork issues. Despite footwork, he often uses leverage to complete his blocks and create running lanes. He could definitely compete for the starting job but may need a little developing. One of his major positives is he’s credited as a smart player, and rarely makes mistakes.
175. Robert Lester SS- Alabama: Long Body that bodes well in today’s passing league. Can really make plays at the highest point and has a knack for reading quarterbacks. Considered very athletic and can even cover slot receivers. Lester has tendencies to be a good tackler whilst still attempting the “big hit” and is described by coaches as having great work ethic. He will definitely need assistance fixing his footwork and can often lose a step when changing directions, but that’s where Jerome Henderson can really shine.
Now I do realize that some may disagree with this mock ,but that’s the beauty in Mock Drafts. I do realize it was offense heavy but with this leaking offensive line, my dreams have been filled with thoughts of Tony Romo having an inkling of more time to find Dez Bryant for that backside shoulder grab that became an instant success. Now let the grilling begin, and I’m sure this won’t be even close to what my final thoughts will be, but I reserve my right to be fickle in these times.