Predicting the Dallas Cowboys starting lineup in 2018
DEFENSE CONTINUED …
Sam Linebacker- Leighton Vander Esch 6’4 256 lbs 22 years old
The Cowboys first round draft pick will immediately be put into a starting role, and will be an important piece of the defense. Vander Esch will be a critical part of replacing the production lost when Anthony Hitchens left in free agency.
Mike Linebacker- Jaylon Smith 6’2 223 lbs 22 years old
Jaylon Smith will be a big part of the Cowboys defense in 2018, and how healthy he is will play a big impact on their success. Towards the end of 2017, Smith started to regain the form that made him a potential first round pick prior to his injury, and if he can get back to full strength could become an outstanding player.
Will Linebacker- Sean Lee 6’2 245 lbs 31 years old
The captain of this defense, and the guy who makes it all go is Sean Lee. When he was on the field last season, the Cowboys were nearly unbeatable, and he makes such a difference for this team. If Lee can stay healthy the Dallas defense will be just fine.
Left Cornerback- Jourdan Lewis 5’10 188 lbs 22 years old
After getting into a starting role midway through the 2017 season, Lewis played outstanding down the stretch. He will be the Cowboys number one corner, and take on the toughest assignments and receivers Dallas will have to face.
Right Cornerback- Byron Jones 6’1 199 lbs 25 years old
It has been made pretty clear that the Cowboys plan to move Byron Jones back to cornerback, and I think this move will benefit him greatly. I believe Kris Richard will be able to get the most out of Jones, and he will earn the starting right corner job in the Dallas defense.
Free Safety- Chidobe Awuzie 6’0 202 lbs 22 years old
After missing out on Derwin James and being unable to acquire Earl Thomas, I think Dallas turns in-house to solve their safety problem. The Cowboys have floated around the idea of moving Awuize to the safety position, and although I personally do not agree with the decision, it is the move I think they will make. I think Dallas will like Awuzie’s versatility, and believe he has the necessary strengths to succeed s a safety in their defense.
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Strong Safety- Xavier Woods 5’11 197 22 years old
Woods is another pick for my breakout Cowboys defender in the 2018 season. I think the Dallas staff has a lot of faith in him, and rightfully so. Playing alongside Awuize I think Woods will flourish, and be a very solid starter at the strong safety position.