The Dallas Cowboys are coming off of arguably the worst defensive season in it’s history. After finishing 31st against the run and yielding a franchise-record 473 points, defense should dominate in the 2021 NFL Draft for Dallas.
As much as the focus has been on the secondary with so many top-notch cornerbacks and safeties available, and the need the Cowboys have in both areas, the defensive tackle spot is also one that needs upgrades. According to Mike Fisher of Sports Illustrated, the Cowboys are eyeing Florida State Defensive Tackle Marvin Wilson early in the draft.
Wilson’s career with the Seminoles started slowly with only seven tackles as a freshman in 2017. His next two seasons are where Wilson showed his potential on the next level with 85 combined tackles (12.5 tackles for loss), 8.5 sacks, 5 pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery while garnering First-Team All-ACC honors in 2019. His 2020 season was cut short by a leg injury, much like his season the year before was with a hand injury, and only managed 17 tackles and a sack in six games, but was named Second-Team All-ACC.
Adding Wilson to the Cowboys defensive front is an interesting thought. He played all over the defensive line for the Seminoles so his position flex can’t be denied. Potentially, he can play 3-tech or 1-tech, and with the Cowboys already having Neville Gallimore, Trysten Hill, Antwaun Woods, and Brent Urban this could be a very nice rotation.
Wilson was a top 10 graded defensive tackle in 2018 and 2019 according to Pro Football Focus before his shortened senior campaign. His violent punch once the ball is snapped, ability to absorb double teams, and consistent motor make him one of the top interior defensive linemen coming out of the collegiate ranks.
The Cowboys need help against the run which is a strong suit for Willson, and he also adds value to getting pressure from the interior which is a quarterback’s worst nightmare. He has things to work on like shedding blocks better, but his upside outweighs his weaknesses.
Wilson’s scouting report via The Draft Network
Marvin Wilson was a highly-touted high school recruit and had exciting flashes of next-level potential throughout his time at Florida State. He aligned primarily on the interior for the Seminoles but played some 5-technique in 2020. His best fit at the next level comes for an even front defense that features him on passing downs where he illustrates good hand usage, quickness, and urgency when rushing the quarterback. Wilson is a capable run defender but has some issues with anchoring and contact balance due to a top-heavy frame and narrow lower body. It’s apparent that Wilson has natural athleticism and power, but his body composition and playing with inconsistent leverage rob him of those qualities. He would be well-served to clean up his frame to allow his natural gifts to shine with more consistency. It’s clear that Wilson can take another step forward and develop into a balanced defender that is a featured part of an NFL defensive line rotation if everything comes together.
Ideal Role: Rotational defensive tackle.
Scheme Fit: 4-3, attack-style defense.
Pro Day Numbers
Height: 6’3
Weight: 303
40-yard dash: 5.12
Vertical Jump: 25.5 inches
Broad Jump: 8’11”
Bench Press/225 pounds: 23 reps
Wilson will likely be there for the taking on Day 2 of the draft and the Cowboys should consider him.
