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Cowboys, Senior Bowl 2016: Three Prospects to Watch

By Lauren Draper-Wood

Jan 24, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; General view of the center of the field Reese
Jan 24, 2015; Mobile, AL, USA; General view of the center of the field Reese /
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Oct 31, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Temple Owls linebacker Tyler Matakevich (8) looks on prior to a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 31, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Temple Owls linebacker Tyler Matakevich (8) looks on prior to a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

Tyler Matakevich – Linebacker

Temple aren’t exactly a college footballing powerhouse. Of the 11 Temple players drafted in the last 15 years just 4 were top 100 with only Muhammad Wilkerson of the New York Jets taken top 50.

Linebacker Tyler Matakevich is looking to join Wilkerson in the Temple top 50 pick alumni ranks. He’s currently got a 2nd/3rd round draft grade from CBS and as Temple’s most decorated player of all time he’s got massive NFL potential. Read Matakevich’s profile page on the Owl’s website and it lists plaudit after plaudit, award after award.

At 6-0, 232lbs he doesn’t impose in size, but he’s an all or nothing, 110% constant hustle player. He’s smart and will need to show his football intelligence to Garrett and on looking scouts this week. He doesn’t have the athleticism compared to other linebackers but the combination of intelligence and intensity allows him to make plays.

He was a clear leader for the Owls and has been referred to as the heart and soul of that defense. Defensive coordinator Phil Snow makes the point that the linebacker may not top the charts at the combine he’ll still appeal to NFL teams.

"“He just finds a way to make plays. That’s why the pros are going to come in and time him. He’s not going to be the fastest guy. He’s not going to be the quickest guy. But he’s going to play in the league a long time. He’s just one of those guys.”"

Not elite athletically but a phenomenal leader with intangibles that can’t be taught. Remind you of a certain #82? While the Cowboys second round pick is likely a bit too high to take Matakevich, if he’s there in the third I’d snap your hand off. Watch this right kind of guy win over Jason Garrett this week.

Next: Cowboys 2016 NFL Draft: Five running back options

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