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Dallas Cowboys 2017 NFL Draft: Grading Each Pick

By Steven Mullenax

Sep 10, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Leon Allen (33) is brought down by Louisiana Tech Bulldogs safety Xavier Woods (7) down the field during the first half at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Leon Allen (33) is brought down by Louisiana Tech Bulldogs safety Xavier Woods (7) down the field during the first half at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) and defensive end Taco Charlton (33) celebrate his interception against the Florida Gators during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Michigan Wolverines safety Jarrod Wilson (22) and defensive end Taco Charlton (33) celebrate his interception against the Florida Gators during the second quarter in the 2016 Citrus Bowl at Orlando Citrus Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

. First Round, 28th Overall. Michigan. TACO CHARLTON, DE. B+

Height: 6’5″
Weight: 277 lbs.
Combine 40 Speed/Bench Press: 4.91/25
2016 Numbers: 40 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks

Analysis: The selection of Michigan defensive end Taco Charlton in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys was not a complete surprise. Although I personally preferred Wisconsin linebacker T.J. Watt, Charlton fills the same basic need.

With players like Watt and Washington cornerback Kevin King still on the board, Dallas decided Charlton was their man. Taco’s tall frame and long arms remind me of troubled defensive end Randy Gregory. While his tape reminds me a bit of DeMarcus Lawrence coming out of Boise State in 2014. Basically, Charlton is a combination of players already on the Cowboys roster.

Regardless, the Cowboys believe defensive end was the better selection here as there were several quality defensive back prospects still available in a very deep class. The same could not necessarily be said for edge rushers.

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