5 first-round prospects for Cowboys who'd fit perfectly with Mike Zimmer

1. Jer'Zhan Newton, DL, Illinois

2023: 52 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks

With Zimmer seemingly emphasizing the importance of stopping the run, selecting Illinois defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton would be an exceptional start.

Newton, the 2023 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, is one of the nation's fiercest run stoppers. He has power and the quickness to get off the line and into the backfield at an impressive rate.

Newton uses his strong 300 pound frame to his advantage to bruise his way through the line. He is not afraid to chase down quarterbacks either and is quick enough to do so. Some of last season's sacks for Newton were on plays were there seemed to be no chance for him to make a play.

What can benefit Zimmer the most is Newton's ability to be effective from either tackle spot. Newton is not as fast off the snap so a speed rush cannot be the pursuit Newton lives by. He plays more traditional and would fit better in a 3-technique line in the NFL. For his size, he will need to be teamed up with bigger run-stoppers alongside him.

Still at No. 24, Newton could be a great choice for Dallas.

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