Cowboys, Jerry Jones have some big choices to make in NFL Draft
By Angel Torres
Free Agency – Defensive line Overhaul
The Dallas Cowboys know they have to add to their defensive line so in this scenario, the Dallas Cowboys add hypothetically recently released pass rusher Von Miller and sign New York Giants one technique Dalvin Tomlinson after clearing up some cap space by signing Dak Prescott to a long term deal and they restructure a couple of contracts.
The defensive line now consists of Tomlinson and Antuan Woods to man the one-technique spot while a rotation of Trysten Hill and Nevill Gallimore occupy the three-technique. Edge rushers Demarcus Lawrence, Von Miller, and Randy Gregory provide the pass rush.
This scenario has the team bringing back the same combination of linebackers Jaylon Smith and Leighton Vander Esch while adding depth by smart free-agent signee or through later in the draft.
10th pick- First Round
With the tenth pick, the Dallas Cowboys have the options to take Patrick Surtain out of Alabama, cornerback Caleb Farley out of Virginia Tech, or Rashawn Slater the big tackle out of Northwestern.
The recent report out of Dallas that bookends Tyron Smith and La’el Collins are progressing well combined with a very strong tackle draft class makes me eliminate Slater right out of the gate.
The option here will simply be about preference and I am fine with either player. If pressed to make a decision on the two, it would come down to some simple factors. Farley looks more fluid in his movement and change of direction skills but he opted out of the collegiate season. The next time he plays competitively would come after almost a 20-month break.
Surtain played well in the SEC and has a player connection with what would be his counterpart in Trevon Diggs. Dallas players are already starting to like his posts on social media meaning it feels more like a good locker room fit.
42nd pick – Second Round
With the defensive line rebuilt and the Cowboys securing the cornerback of their choice, the team can now address the safety position. There are a few options but I have a top two in the second round.
Richie Grant is this year’s big draft riser and unlike so many league-wide first-round attempts, the Cowboys do the right thing and can snag him at the top of the second round. Too many times have draft risers gotten into the first half of the first round and have not lived up to expectations. The top of the second round is the perfect value for these types of players.
Trevor Moehrig out of TCU is another popular name and just like the first round, any combination is fine with me although I do prefer Grant. Moehrig is a very good safety but his movement skills need refinement.
Trade – Big Name
Sitting at ten with needs in the secondary the Dallas Cowboys could entertain a veteran name that hasn’t necessarily been talked about or one that is available but has concerns. What happens if New England offers up their 15th pick and aging cornerback Stephon Gilmore? Is that enough to move away from a young corner and still come away with a first-round pick? These are scenarios the front office has to answer even before the situation, as unlikely as it is, comes up.