The Dallas Cowboys have few needs or holes to fill up this offseason. The call seems to be that we need to draft a safety first and you will see me agree with that assessment on most accounts.
However, there is a name out in this draft that, if available, we have to jump for. I have been following the Senior Bowl fervently and have witnessed one particular offensive lineman consistently put defensive lineman on their back or in deadlock.
This players name is Mike Iupati, an offensive guard from Idaho.
At senior bowl practice this year the 6 foot 5, 325 pound guard pancaked Louisiana Tech's D'Anthony Smith during a pass rush drill. That changed everything for Iupati who instantly became someone to keep an eye on.
Originally from Samoa, Iupati is a man with great character and extreme talent who many experts believe can also play tackle. He is fast, strong, and smart. A great combination for a man trying to make his mark in one of the most important positions in football.
So what will he be for Dallas?
We have an aging line and need to find a replacement for Adams and Koiser, Iupati has the perfect build and skill set to come in and be an impact right away for the Dallas Cowboys.
A lot of people are calling for Taylor Mays from USC to be called at the 27th pick of the NFL draft but Iupati would be the smarter call. Mays was shaky this week when asked to perform at a higher level and many project Iupati to be a late first-early second pick. Jerry's gotta pull the trigger.
Other Names to keep an eye on:
Terrell Skinner, Maryland, FS: A balanced safety who is projected anywhere between the 3-5 rounds. With Sensabaugh adding some security at safety I think Skinner could really transform into a good rangy safety. At the Senior Bowl this past weekend Skinner played well making his presence felt on the field.
Morgan Burnett, Georgia Tech, Safety: A junior who earned his first start at Tech as a freshman. A leader with great coverage skills who can also tackle with good form. He has the ability to make plays leading the Tech defense with 7 interceptions and 15 passes defended. Projected in the second round.
Sean Lee, Penn State, ILB: Lee is a dominating linebacker who makes plays consistently. Though slowed with a leg injury, if you could get him in the 3rd round you gotta take the gamble that the injury isn't going to affect him. Penn State is known as “linebacker U” and experts have this guy as the best to come out in the last 5 years.
Bryant Anderson, Central Michigan, WR: With Miles Austin emerging as our fast playmaking receiver, Anderson could compliment him wonderfully. A tall possession receiver who seems to make all the catches and wins almost every jump ball. Needs to work on burst and YAC but lots or potential for this 4th round pick.
Malcolm Sheppard, Arkansas, DT: This is an explosive defensive tackle who can fill gaps. Quick off the snap is quick to penetrate as well with the acceleration and awareness to change direction and stop plays. Wonderful play recognition plus Jerry loves his razorbacks.
