The Dallas Cowboys have selected LSU linebacker Damone Clark with the 176th pick in the NFL Draft. It’s the second straight year Dallas has selected an LSU LB after taking Jabril Cox in last year’s draft.
Last season, Clark was a First-team All-SEC selection and received Second-team All-American honors from Sporting News. He recorded a team-high 63 tackles, 5.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles in 2021. He was a two-year starter for the Tigers and wore the No. 18 jersey last season, a number given to someone who shows high character and selflessness.
A spinal fusion surgery to correct a herniated disk will keep him sidelined in his rookie season. However, he has the chance to be a real contributor in 2023. This is a pick for the future, with Leighton Vander Esch potentially departing after the 2022 season. Clark has great speed, athleticism and explosiveness. If he can come back from his injury firing, the Cowboys drafted a second-round talent in the fifth round.
