Dallas Cowboys front seven sports high draft pedigree

In the midst of a late free agency lull, it’s interesting to see the unusually high draft pedigree of the new Dallas Cowboys front seven.

After a fury of signings and re-signings during the opening weeks of free agency, it oddly seems like a while since news broke for the Dallas Cowboys. Certainly, the situational time warp grasping the nation is playing tricks on the mind.

Ample time has now passed to reflect on the roster after new additions. I found it interesting to explore the unusual collection of high draft pedigree the Cowboys have assembled among their front seven on defense.

The high draft pedigree designation will include top 60 overall draft selections. For this exercise I will also include two players awaiting NFL reinstatement decisions.

Gerald McCoy, DT – 3rd overall (2010)
Best college season (2009) – 34 tackles, 15.5 for loss, 6 sacks

Aldon Smith, DE – 7th overall (2011)
Best college season (2009) – 64 tackles, 19 for loss, 11.5 sacks

Dontari Poe, DT – 11th overall (2012)
Best college season (2010) – 41 tackles, 6.5 for loss, 2 sacks

Leighton Vander Esch, LB – 19th overall (2018)
Best college season (2017) – 141 tackles, 8.5 for loss, 4 sacks

DeMarcus Lawrence, DE – 34th overall (2014)
Best college season (2013) – 72 tackles, 20.5 for loss, 10.5 sacks

Jaylon Smith, LB – 34th overall (2016)
Best college season (2015) – 115 tackles, 9 for loss, 1 sack

Sean Lee, LB – 55TH overall (2010)
Best college season (2007) – 138 tackles, 10.5 for loss, 3.5 sacks

Trysten Hill, DT – 58TH overall (2019)
Best college season (2018) – 36 tackles, 10.5 for loss, 3 sacks

Randy Gregory, DE – 60th overall (2015)
Best college season (2013) – 65 tackles, 17 for loss, 9.5 sacks

Future NFL impact is largely predicated on recent production and remaining abilities. Though it’s hard not to appreciate the collection of former college studs that inhabit the Cowboys front seven.

Four players were selected within the top 20 overall. There’s a strong argument both Jaylon Smith and Sean Lee would have also been first round picks if not for significant draft day injuries. If this group finds the fountain of youth together, look out.