Dallas Cowboys: 5 first round targets that are smokescreens
By Brad Austin
HAROLD LANDRY (DE) – BOSTON COLLEGE
Harold Landry is a talented edge rusher with high upside. At the same time, he enters the league with less than ideal run stopping abilities.
Despite the player’s virtues, I can’t see the Cowboys spending two consecutive first round picks at defensive end. The last guy, Taco Charlton, still isn’t a shoe-in to start.
Guard, linebacker, receiver, and safety have more pressing needs for an immediate contributor. Postponing those for the third best edge rusher is poor roster management.
Assuming a long-term deal doesn’t happen this summer, Dallas has the option to use a second franchise tag on DeMarcus Lawrence if edge rush is a concern for 2019.
COURTLAND SUTTON (WR) – SMU
If seeking a physical match for the vacant “X” receiver, Courtland Sutton (6’4, 218) is the prototype. Be careful assuming reproducing Dez Bryant is the WR draft strategy.
Entering the 2010 draft, Dez was more dynamic than Sutton. Widely regarded as the top receiver, Bryant only slid to Dallas’ 24th pick due to character concerns.
Sutton will need time to learn precise route running. Like Dez, he doesn’t separate well in tight coverage. Unlike Dez, he doesn’t dominate defenders of contested balls.
Sutton should be a worthy #1 receiver in time. But a dominant difference maker as a rookie is wishful thinking. Dallas will opt for a speedier receiver in the early rounds.