As the search for the next great pass rusher in Dallas continues, the attention of Cowboys Nation has shifted to Missouri. Former Tigers defensive end Charles Harris has been mocked to the Cowboys in the first round more than any other prospect thus far, and could be the perfect fit in Dallas if given the chance.
Currently, the Cowboys “defensive ends” consist mostly of converted defensive tackles and players with the physiques of 5-techniques in a 3-4 defense. Harris would break that mold completely, and would give the Cowboys a real chance to rush the passer with speed.
On my journey through scouting this year’s draft class over at Slant Sports, I recently profiled Charles Harris. To put it simply, I was impressed. Harris is explosive off the edge, and reminds me of another one of my favorite prospects this year, Takk McKinley, in that he is a raw, but talented, speed rusher.
“Harris possesses an elite, explosive first step which helps him to win when pass rushing as soon as the ball is snapped. After exploding off the line of scrimmage with his first step, Harris is athletic and balanced enough to get around the corner and be disruptive in the backfield.”
Harris’s spin move is flat-out impressive. One problem I did notice with Harris, however, was his lack of more pass rushing moves outside of that spin and a simple speed rush.
“While he has the balance and speed to win around the edge at the college level with consistency, he must improve on his technique and block awareness to win in the NFL.”
If available at the end of the first round, I see no real reason why the Cowboys shouldn’t jump on the opportunity to bring Charles Harris on to the team. His first step, balance, length, and motor are all top-notch and give him a chance to be successful immediately in the NFL.
Personally, I see Harris becoming a Vic Beasley-type player in the NFL who may need a year before he truly explodes in the league. Beasley had 4 sacks his rookie year, but 15.5 sacks this year, which would have led the Cowboys by leaps and bounds, for comparison.
While the search for an edge rusher continues, Charles Harris is certainly towards the top of my wish list on draft day.
I hope we draft Charles Harris too.