Cowboys NFL Draft Preview - Defensive End

Last week we started looking at needs for the Dallas Cowboys. The needs were determined to be DT, DE, CB, TE and RB. We looked at DT in the first installment of this series. Now it’s time to look at Defensive End’s available in the 2015 NFL Draft. The Cowboys may still go out and sign a Free Agent such as Jason Pierre-Paul, which would change the priority of their picks but this list is assuming they want to build through the draft. Here it is, Part 2 of 5: Defensive End’s.

Much like the first blog, I have broken the list up into two groups, Pass Rushers and 3-down End’s. The Cowboys have pick s 27, 28, and 27 in rounds 1-3 respectfully.  All of the 1^st Round talent looks to be comprised of hybrid 3-4 OLB/4-3 Speed Rushers, while the 2^nd and 3^rd Rounds may have the better system fits for the Cowboys.

If the Cowboys are looking for edge rushers for 3^rd downs then there is some talent available with players like Hau’oli Kikaha, Lorenzo Mauldin, and Nate Orchard.

Hau’oli Kikaha, Washington, 6-3 246 

The best true pass rusher left at this point in the draft. He’s a bit undersized for a 4-3 end, but a relentless pass rusher. Great hands and knows how to use leverage. Concerns over two prior ACL surgeries may cause him to slide down some draft boards. For what the Cowboys need, Kikaha fits the bill.

Nate Orchard, Utah, 6-4 255 

Another great pass rusher, but with only one season will such production. Has extremely quick feet, but often gets blown up by fullbacks and pulling guards. The ultimate risk/reward player; will either be a special player or complete bust.

Lorenzo Mauldin, Louisville, 6-4 252 

Seen by many as a 3-4 OLB, but could be used as a 3^rd down pass rusher by the Cowboys. Of these three was the most productive against the run. High motor and high character; fits the Jason Garrett football player profile.

Now let's look at the more traditional 4-3 Defensive End's These three are better against the run , but lack what the Cowboys need, which is pass rushing.

Preston Smith, Mississippi State, 6-6 270 

Great against the run because of good wrap-up skills, but lacking true pass rushing moves. Was a rotational player for the Bulldogs. Could be used as a 4-3 end on 1^st and 2^nd down and move inside to DT on 3^rd downs.

Trey Flowers, Arkansas, 6-3 270 

Not the most athletic looking player available which means he could become better under NFL style weight training program or he won’t develop into more than a 4-3 run stopping end. Intelligent player and is growing as a pass rusher.

Markus Golden, Missouri, 6-3 260 

Good against the run with a strong straight line pass rush. Mainly a bull-rusher in college, but with better coaching could become a good every down player. Does have experience playing special teams which is a plus for a mid-round pick like Golden.

Coming up in the next installment we look at another position of need for the Dallas Cowboys, Cornerbacks.

@geoffrey_craig