The current Cowboys roster is still littered with holes at positions which must be counted on heavily to contribute next season.  Securing a significant improvement at safety, adding an imposing pass rusher, or finding a solid run-stuffing defensive tackle could pay immediate huge dividends to the Cowboys defense next season. Finding two or three of these upgrades together could transform a lacking defense into an imposing force overnight.  Not to mention, there are many available wide receivers who could dangerously elevate the passing game for Tony Romo and company. (more…)

Shea McClellin, OLB/DE Boise State

November 19, 2011; San Diego, CA, USA; Boise State Broncos defensive defensive lineman Shea McClellin (92) reacts after a stop during the first half against San Diego State Aztecs at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-US PRESSWIRE

6-3 260 4.62 40

McClellin’s stock has been climbing fast. In fact, (after visits with multiple NFL teams) he has risen about 18 spots in the rankings. He went from being projected in the 5th to 6th round to anywhere between the late 1st and early 3rd round. Rob Rang at CBS has him going to the Cowboys in the 2nd round at 45th overall. I can’t say I would complain one bit. If you know anything about BSU you know they have an excellent coaching staff that produces well disciplined, fast, athletic, high motor football players. It was a thing of beauty watching them dominate the much larger Va Tech offense. In my opinion, this guy could very well be the JJ Watt of the 2012 NFL Draft.

McClellin is a strong player inside for the Broncos who uses good leverage to get under heavier offensive linemen and jolt them back in their stance. He is aggressive in his slants to get inside and create disruption in the backfield. He is stout despite playing underweight, and can hold off linemen and smother tight ends at the point of attack. He has no problem tackling and is a good pass rusher; he employs a quick-trigger off the line and uses his hands to swat and then dip around unassuming tackles. He is good to keep hands off his body, a solid defensive tactic for a player his size. Once in the backfield, he finishes plays with flare and can run down most quarterbacks. (NFL.com)

McClellin was known as Mr. Versatility at BSU. He saw game time at defensive end, outside linebacker, some inside linebacker and even an occasional stint in the Nickel package. In college, he tried to fashion himself after New England Patriots linebacker Mike Vrabel.

“That type of guy just because of his versatility and what he did,” McClellin said. “I think just the way he moved and the way he did everything was kind of old school and that’s how I like to do it. I would say it’s the same mindset as if I was in a 4-3. I’ll attack the edge and get after the quarterback any way I can.”

Plays fast with very good football quickness and agile footwork. A high effort and energy rusher who plays with obvious passion and intensity — relentless and tenacious motor. Fast in pursuit with good chase skills to track down the action. Good get-off momentum and anticipation — instinctive defender who locates the ball quickly. Extremely active and plays with an aggressive playing nature and attitude — self-starter and strong finisher. Country strong and very physical, welcoming contact. Fights and works hard to find a way to beat blockers — disruptive with a nose for the ball. Versatile defensive player with experience at LB, DE and other hybrid front-seven positions. A creative pass rusher, using a variety of moves and techniques to create pressure. Tough and durable with a productive collegiate resume (33.0 tackles for loss and 20.5 sacks), starting the final 37 games of his career in Boise.–(Dane Brugler)

NFL Comparison: Eric Norwood, Carolina Panthers

My story is continued on the next page…..

We need someone to actually get to this guy (US Presswire).

As I have stated before, the Cowboys need great football players in the upcoming draft. This seems a bit simplistic, yet Jerry and Co. routinely draft the flashiest or most troubled player and attempt to “fix” them. Or, the Cowboys organization picks for a specific need (lately it’s been skill positions) and get burned drastically when that player does not pan out (Bobby Carpenter comes to mind).

I understand Jerry’s desire to “make history,” as he has often put it or his wont to make headlines by doing things differently. In this draft, however, the Cowboys need to stick to the script. The rest of the division has long since passed the Cowboys in terms of talent with the exception of the woeful Redskins. The 2007 Cowboys are a distant memory and if we’re all being honest with ourselves, the 2007 defense wasn’t very good and the team had the benefit of a favorable schedule. The 2009 Cowboys also benefited from a favorable schedule and the decline of Donovan McNabb. (more…)