Dallas Cowboys: Jourdan Lewis emerging from draft class

Through the first three games of the season, Michigan cornerback Jourdan Lewis is starting to emerge as the best of the Dallas Cowboys draft class.

The Dallas Cowboys had one of the greatest draft classes in franchise history in 2016, with names like quarterback Dak Prescott, running back Ezekiel Elliott, linebacker Jaylon Smith, defensive tackle Maliek Collins and cornerback Anthony Brown all making significant contributions as starters for Dallas this season.

So the Cowboys 2017 draft class has a lot to live up to. And through three games so far, it appears that Michigan cornerback Jourdan Lewis is emerging as the cream of that rookie crop.

Lewis, the Cowboys third round selection (92nd overall), made his debut against the Denver Broncos in Week Two. That’s despite getting a late start to training camp due to being in a courtroom, defending himself in a domestic violence case. His pending legal issues were thought to be one reason Lewis fell to Dallas in the third round, as many believed he had first round level talent.

After being found not guilty in that case, Lewis flew to Oxnard, California to join the Cowboys, whose training camp was already underway. Unfortunately, the 22-year old rookie suffered a hamstring injury after his second practice. The injury sidelined him for the rest of training camp and the entire preseason.

So when the Cowboys were forced to play Lewis against the Broncos due to injuries, they were literally throwing him into the deep end without a paddle. Despite his lack of practice time, the young defender was able to hold his own in the Mile High City. Lewis even recorded his first interception as a professional.

On Monday night, against the Arizona Cardinals, Lewis played even better. Batting away a couple balls and making some great open field tackles, the Cowboys third rounder played with the poise of a veteran.

The same can not be said for the Cowboys other rookies. Although fourth round wide receiver Ryan Switzer has shown some juice as a punt returner, he’s yet to have a real breakout play. First round selection, Michigan defensive end Taco Charlton has been able to get some pressure from his position. But certainly not matching the hype that comes with being the team’s first round selection.

Second round pick, corner Chidobe Awuzie, has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Sixth round selection safety Xavier Woods has played well in spots as he’s also been pressed into duty early. And seventh round wide receiver Noah Brown made his very first reception on Monday night against the Cardinals.

Next: Six Dallas Cowboys whose stock is on the rise

With 13 games to go, there is still plenty of time for these Dallas Cowboys rookies to make an impact this season. But so far, Jourdan Lewis appears to be the most promising.