Dallas Cowboys Defense: How Taco Charlton fits in
The Dallas Cowboys addressed their most pressing need by drafting the supremely athletic defensive end from Michigan, Taco Charlton.
The Dallas Cowboys selected Michigan defensive end Taco Charlton with the 28th pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft Thursday night. While it wasn’t as exciting of a pick as taking Ohio State running back Ezekiel Elliott last year, it gives the team a player to build around at their most important position of need.
For years, Dallas has tried to find a pass rusher to be the cornerstone of their defense. With each attempt not panning out due to either off-the-field or durability issues. However, with Charlton it seems the Cowboys have found a talented player without the concerns that have plagued them in the past.
Charlton is an insanely large human being. At the combine he measured in at 6’6” 280 lbs, with 34” arms. His frame and arm length gave him a distinctive advantage against offensive tackles while at Michigan, helping him achieve All Big-Ten First Team Honors last season as he compiled 9.5 sacks for the Wolverines.
Along with his impressive size, Charlton possesses amazing hand usage and power that helps him keep offensive lineman off of his frame. This is arguably the strongest part of his game, as it allowed him to dominate in defending the run and rushing the passer. It is also a positive for the coaching staff, as they can focus on other aspects of his technique during training camp.
Despite his proficient hand usage, Charlton is still a very raw prospect. He wasn’t named a starter until last season and it kept him from going higher in the draft. He struggles with keeping his pad level low, which is common for taller defensive ends, and is lacking when it comes to pass rush moves.
However, these issues can be fixed with good coaching of proper technique. Fortunately for Charlton, Dallas has one of the best defensive line coaches in Rod Marinelli. If he is able to improve the technical part of his game, Charlton can develop into a pro-bowl caliber pass rusher for the Cowboys.
During their post first round press conference, the Cowboys said they are planning on playing Charlton at right defensive end. Across from the offense’s left tackle. If he can play well on that side, it would give Dallas flexibility to move defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence to the left side and let versatile defensive lineman David Irving play more snaps inside. Thus, improving the pass rush all around.
Next: Top 10 Undrafted Free Agents in Dallas Cowboys History
As the Dallas Cowboys go into day two of the draft, fans should be excited by the selection of Taco Charlton. He has the ability to become the defensive end the Cowboys have needed to have a consistent pass rush going forward.