The Dallas Cowboys have been busy this offseason, though much of the activity leaves a lot to be desired by some fans. All the same, Jerry Jones still has the NFL draft to look forward to, where he’ll need to address several deficiencies in his roster.
Trading away Amari Cooper has received a mixed response, especially after Jerry Jones must have realized he traded away his former wideout only to have him now play with Deshaun Watson. Afterward, defensive end Randy Gregory backtracked and changed his mind, opting to go to Denver instead. Nonetheless, wide receiver and defense shouldn’t bypass the offensive line as the Cowboys’ biggest need.
With that in mind, it seems many outlets around the country also support that statement given the recent string of mock drafts making the internet rounds.
What do mock drafts around the NFL say the Cowboys should do in the first round?
Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports predicts that the Cowboys will go offensive line with the 24th selection. In particular, he sees one of the most lauded prospects in recent memory falling in Iowa’s Tyler Linderbaum. Seen as the sixth-ranked prospect by CBS, Linderbaum projects to be either a starting center or possibly a guard if he bulks up in the NFL.
Regarded as a generational talent by some, Linderbaum would be a slam dunk for the Cowboys’ brain trust, which has been taking some hits, especially after being on the receiving end of some harsh words from Gregory.
Should the Cowboys draft a tackle at 24?
Sports Illustrated seems to think so, as they have Tulsa’s Tyler Smith as the pick for Dallas. As most fans are aware of, Connor Williams and La’el Collins are gone. Tyron Smith, on the other hand, can’t seem to stay healthy. Drafting Tyler gives Dallas a prospect with great upside who could become an everyday starter at tackle, but in the meantime, can take up some playing time at guard as he makes his NFL transition.
It should be noted that the Draft Network has the Cowboys going with Kenyon Green of Texas A & M, a versatile lineman that can help all across the line. His versatility would come in handy as he can play virtually any position, save for center. Getting Dak Prescott as much protection as possible should still be the Cowboys’ top priority this offseason.
