The Dallas Cowboys have been busy making moves the last few days. They placed the exclusive franchise tag on Dak Prescott, signed Amari Cooper to a five-year, 100 million dollar extension and retained veteran Sean Lee.
However, there have been some losses as well. Jason Witten, Jeff Heath, and Maliek Collins all went to the Las Vegas Raiders. Veteran receiver Randall Cobb signed with the Houston Texans and Robert Quinn took his talents to Chicago to join the Bears.
Arguably, the biggest loss is Cornerback Byron Jones. Once he received a five-year 82.5 million dollar deal from the Miami Dolphins, the need for a cornerback increased dramatically.
As it stands today, the Cowboys starters at cornerback would be Jourdan Lewis and Chidobe Awuzie. The former had a really good 2019 campaign, while the latter regressed and became a liability in coverage to a degree. Anthony Brown, the team’s nickel corner over the last several seasons, is set to hit the open market. This puts the cornerback position right at the top of the priority list in April for the Cowboys, and there are some intriguing options to choose from.
Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
Diggs has everything you want in a corner. He’s a tall corner at 6’2 which allows him to use his length to contest a lot of throws and re-route receivers. His recovery speed mixed with that length gives him the ability to defend passes even if he’s trailing. He attacks the ball in the air which is exactly what you want in a corner. His technique is very good which means he doesn’t get beat off the line of scrimmage often and allows him to cover faster receivers.
CJ Henderson, CB, Florida
At 6’1 and 205 pounds, Henderson has the prototypical size you want at the cornerback position. He can read the quarterbacks eyes well and has great anticipation. Willing to support in the run game. Showed excellent speed and athleticism at the NFL Combine by running a 4.39 in the 40-yard dash and producing a 37.5-inch vertical jump.
Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
Arnette is a natural cover corner with the size you want at 6’0 195 pounds. He’s very versatile, showing the ability to play on the outside and in the slot. Physicality is also a part of his game when you watch his tape. He’s a willing run defender and has good ball skills.
Those are just a few of the cornerbacks the Cowboys can grab in the first few rounds, however, there are a few late-round prospects to consider. Nebraska’s Lamar Jackson, Tulsa’s Reggie Robinson, and Louisiana Tech’s L’Jarius Sneed are all potential picks the Cowboys could steal on day three.
With the loss of Byron Jones, I fully expect the Cowboys to double-dip at the cornerback position in the draft.
