If the Cowboys get a top ten pick, which need should they fill first?
Nov 8, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Byron Jones (31) during the second half of a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium. Eagles won 33-27 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Ray Carlin-USA TODAY Sports
Cornerback
Current Roster:
Brandon Carr
Morris Claiborne
Byron Jones
Tyler Patmon
Corey White
Deji Olatoye
Orlando Scandrick (IR)
2016 Free Agent Options:
Josh Norman
Prince Amukamara
Patrick Robinson
Josh Robinson
Coty Sensabaugh
Janoris Jenkins
Brandon Boykin
Sterling Moore
Casey Hayward
Senquez Golson
Jeremy Lane
Justin Bethel
Jamell Fleming
Shareece Wright
E.J. Biggers
Tracy Porter
2016 Draft Targets:
Vernon Hargreaves III, CB, Florida
Jalen Ramsey, CB,S Florida St.
Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU
Kendall Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech
Will Redmond, CB, Mississippi St.
Analysis: The Cowboys could be without both of their starting cornerbacks next offseason. Brandon Carr is the highest paid, mot underperforming cornerback in the NFL and will likely be cut this offseason for salary cap purposes. And Dallas opted out of Morris Claiborne’s fifth-year option in 2016, allowing him to cash in elsewhere via free agency on his solid performance this year.
The Cowboys drafted cornerback Byron Jones in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft, and seem very pleased with his play. But they likely wish to move him to free safety in 2016. Veteran corner Orlando Scandrick should return this offseason from his season-ending knee injury to stake his claim for one of those starting roles. The other could go to Jones. But Dallas certainly has options.
Via free agency, Josh Norman is the crown jewel. Although I have no idea why the Carolina Panthers would allow the best cornerback in the NFL to leave. Prince Amukamara and Janoris Jenkins are also to big names to watch this offseason.
If Dallas elected to draft another top defensive back talent in the first round next year, Florida’s Vernon Hargreaves and Florida State’s Jalen Ramsey are being touted as potential top-ten talents.
But the Cowboys haven’t had the best of luck drafted cornerbacks in the top ten recently (Claiborne), so Id expect them to steer clear to address other areas of need. Still, Dallas loves positional versatility. And Ramsey gives them that, being able to play both corner and safety.
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