The NFL draft is today and I thought i’d give this one more shot. The truth is that none of these mock drafts matter, they’re just a way to be more engaged with the draft.
So without further adu, this is my “I’m totally wrong, but what the heck” mock draft.
Round One: (Minnesota trades first (25) and third for Dallas first 18 overall) Sylvester Williams, DT, UNC
The Cowboys are able to land Williams who was the same guy they would have selected if Minnesota hadn’t come calling. With Williams, the ‘Boys get a versatile interior lineman who can play both the 1- and 3-technique in the Tampa 2. Williams has a non-stop motor and excellent work ethic. A rags-to-riches story ends with Williams fulfilling his dreams and the Cowboys filling one giant need.
Round Two: Larry Warford, G, Kentucky
Warford is a wall of an interior lineman who plays with a nasty streak. He would instantly upgrade the Cowboys running game but most importantly he would keep the pocket intact for Tony Romo. Warford was given a grade just shy of the elite guys and he’s an excellent consolations prize for a team that badly needs help on the offensive line.
Round Three: Aaron Dobson, WR, Marshall
Dobson is the best value here. He is a big outside receiver that would allow Miles Austin into the slot to ravage teams. Dobson could eventually become a dangerous compliment to Dez Bryant but more importantly another big weapon for Tony Romo.
Round Three (From Minnesota): Barrett Jones, C, Alabama
Jones falls because of an injury that has definitely caused concern to scouts. That shouldn’t detract from the versaitility that Jones has shown in his college career playing all three positions along the offensive lne. Jones isn’t an athletic specimen by any means but he has an exceptional football IQ, great character and tremendous leadership skills. The Cowboys could use an upgrade at center and Jones could be the anchor and leader needed in a huge youth infusion.
Round Four: Stepfan Taylor, RB, Stanford
Underrated, Taylor is as well balanced a back as there is in this class. He isn’t a guy who is going to wow scouts with his measurables but he has good vision, falls forward, and can be explosive through the hole. Taylor is also solid in pass protection and as a receiver out of the backfield. Eventually I could see Taylor replacing Murray in this lineup.
Round Five: Kyle Juszczyk, FB, Harvard
DCN Columnist Todd Werley loves this guy. Juszczyk is one of the best “pure football” players in this draft. He blocks well, can be a dynamic receiver and understands the game well. Some would argue that fullbacks aren’t needed in today’s NFL, but for the Cowboys, who rely on a solid running attack, fullback is a big need. Vickers isn’t promised anything moving forward and Juszczyk would be insane value in the fifth for a team that needs a guy who could play fullback and blocking tight end.
Round Six: Earl Wolff, S, NC State
The Cowboys haven’t given up on Matt Johnson and I believe he eventually starts. However, I can see where Wolff could great competition at the position. Wolff is a rangy safety with good range. He has good instincts and can be a playmaker at the next level if put in the right situation. He’ll be exciting to watch develop.
