Dallas Cowboys 2019 draft prospect: David Edwards

The Dallas Cowboys‘ dominance on the offensive line has shrunk in the last few years. Dallas should consider drafting David Edwards to bolster the line.

Dallas Cowboys‘ quarterback Dak Prescott was sacked 56 times, the second most in the league in 2018. Though you can blame Prescott’s tendency to hold on to the ball rather than letting it rip or throwing it away, the offensive line was simply not helping the passer out.

Right guard Zack Martin continued his Hall of Fame-caliber career with a great season. Left tackle Tyron Smith struggled early, but regain his form down the stretch. Rookie left guard Connor Williams made steady progress throughout the season, and the Cowboys are set to gain an All-Pro back on the roster with Travis Frederick returning from an autoimmune disease.

However, right tackle La’el Collins never lived up to his potential. It’s simple. The Cowboys need to upgrade the right tackle position in the draft. And the man for the job is Wisconsin right tackle David Edwards.

The former high school quarterback turned tight end has found his home at right tackle. Edward started 31 games in his collegiate career, earned first-team All-Big 10 honors, and achieved academic awards in each year he played.

Physically, the offensive lineman has everything you look for in a prospect: the height (6-7), weight (315), strength, and athleticism that is needed to play at the next level. If Edwards had more experience on the offensive line, he might be a first-round prospect.

Edwards is a dog in the run blocking game. When he traps defenders with his hands and digs his feet, Edwards is nearly unstoppable.

He is sometimes beaten in the passing game with speed of the edge. His first step is inconsistent, either too long or too short. So his position to the edge rusher gets him off balance and susceptible to losing in or outside.

His strong arms bail him out a lot of the time. If he gets his hands on defenders, he can move them out of the play.

Though Edwards is a raw prospect, his physical traits give him enough upside for the Cowboys to select him with their second-round pick in the draft. If he is brought to Dallas, he will join Frederick, a former Badger and can grow into a very good starter in the league.

David Edwards is far from a polished right tackle. He would need to work on his technique with offensive line coach, Marc Colombo. But Edwards could fit right in with the Dallas Cowboys’ line.