The 2019 NFL Draft is going to be an interesting one for the Dallas Cowboys. Without a first-round pick and only two selections on Day 2, the third day of the NFL Draft could end up being more important than in years past for the Cowboys. They may need to hit some home runs with some, if not all, of these late-round picks.
Fortunately, the 2019 draft class is pretty deep at positions of need for the Dallas Cowboys. I believe there are several prospects projected to go in the late-rounds who possess the necessary traits and skill set to eventually become starters in the NFL. Today, I want to share with you five offensive players I believe have starting potential.
Let's take a look…
RB, Alexander Mattison, Boise State
Alexander Mattison is an underrated running back prospect in this year's draft class and is projected to be a Day 3 selection at some point during the 2019 NFL Draft. He has somehow managed to fly a little bit under the radar, despite possessing an intriguing skill set that could earn him a starting role as a rookie. He runs with good power, balance, vision, and plays with a sense of urgency/violence that reminds me a little bit of Marion “The Barbarian” Barber during his time with the Dallas Cowboys. The only thing keeping him from being a higher draft pick is his long speed, but he checks all of the other boxes teams look for in a starting RB.
WR, Penny Hart, Georgia State
Wide Receiver Penny Hart was the buzz of the town during and after the 2019 Senior Bowl, but has in a way become a forgotten commodity in this year's draft class. He opened a lot of eyes with his performance in Mobile by showcasing his elite change of direction ability and precise route running. He was nearly impossible to cover, despite his diminutive stature. Unfortunately for him the buzz has died down quite a bit since then, but he still possesses the skill set to become a starting caliber slot receiver and return specialist in the NFL. Players who can cut on a dime and create separation are in high demand, which could earn him a starting role as a rookie. Not bad for a projected Day 3 pick.
OG, Drew Forbes, Southeast Missouri State
Despite being a Division II prospect from Southeast Missouri State, Drew Forbes has a real chance to hear his name called at some point on Day 3 in the 2019 NFL Draft. He was a team captain the last two seasons and finished his collegiate career with 35 consecutive starts at left tackle. He dominated the competition during his time in college with his intense style of play, low center of gravity, and outstanding balance. He will likely be asked to kick inside to guard and will probably need a year or two in an NFL strength and conditioning program before he's ready to contribute, but he has starting potential nonetheless.
TE, Drew Sample, Washington
I think a lot of people are sleeping on Drew Sample and what he can do once he reaches the NFL. Most people see him as nothing more than a career backup, but I believe he has starting potential. He is an exceptional blocker and above-average pass catcher with a lunch-pail mentality. His work ethic and maturity could get him on the field early in his rookie season. Despite splitting time with Will Dissly (Seahawks) during most of his career at Washington, Sample still managed to accumulate 30 starts. His size (6'5″, 255) and block/catch skill set is exactly what the Dallas Cowboys look for in their TE1, meaning he could be someone they target on Day 3. After all, he was one of the Cowboys 30 pre-draft visitors.
OT, Tyler Roemer, San Diego State
Tyler Roemer was an early entrant into the 2019 NFL Draft after leaving school due to a suspension. He clearly needs to develop his body and play as well as mature both on and off the field, but he has the required skills/size to play in the NFL. His athleticism really jumps out on film and he plays with above-average body control. He could compete to become a swing tackle as a rookie, but has a real chance to become a starter in a year or two after spending a little time in a teams strength and conditioning program. If he can clean up his maturity issues he could end up being a Day 3 steal for whatever team invests a pick on him.
